#asktheexpert
Hello doc
my son rubs his eyes a lot with his palm. is there any problem with his eyes

Question

#asktheexpert 
Hello doc
my son rubs his eyes a lot with his palm. is there any problem with his eyes

Accepted Answer

If your son is rubbing his eyes frequently with his tongue, it could indicate several potential issues, and it's essential to pay attention to his behavior and any accompanying symptoms. Here are some possible reasons and recommendations:

Possible Reasons:

1. Itching or Irritation:

Allergies, dust, or irritants can cause itching, prompting him to rub his eyes. This is common in children and may be accompanied by redness or watering.

2. Dry Eyes:

If his eyes are dry, he may rub them to relieve discomfort. This can occur due to environmental factors, such as air conditioning or dry weather.

3. Infections:

Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause discomfort, redness, and discharge, leading a child to rub their eyes.

4. Habit:

Sometimes, children develop habits like rubbing their eyes due to boredom, tiredness, or seeking sensory input.

5. Vision Problems:

If he is experiencing vision issues, such as blurriness, he may rub his eyes in an attempt to see better.

Recommendations:

1. Observe Symptoms:

Monitor for any other symptoms, such as redness, swelling, discharge, excessive tearing, or changes in vision.

2. Keep Hands Clean:

Encourage your son to wash his hands regularly to prevent transferring germs to his eyes.

3. Limit Eye Rubbing:

Gently remind him not to rub his eyes, as this can worsen irritation or lead to injury.

4. Moisture:

If dryness is suspected, consider using artificial tears or a humidifier in his room to maintain moisture in the air.

5. Allergy Management:

If allergies are suspected, try to identify and minimize exposure to allergens (e.g., dust, pet dander).

When to Consult a Doctor:

If the eye rubbing persists and is accompanied by significant redness, swelling, discharge, or changes in vision.

If he complains of pain or discomfort in his eyes.

If the behavior seems unusual or concerning.

It's always best to consult with a pediatrician or an eye specialist to rule out any underlying issues and to get personalized advice tailored to your son's situation.

#asktheexpert Hello doc my son rubs his eyes a lot with his palm. is there any problem with his eyes