Lately, I noticed my child keeps rubbing her eyes — many times a day. At first, I thought it was just a small habit, but over time I started to worry. Could there be something wrong with her eyes?
After watching more closely, I found out that it might be caused by something called inward-growing eyelashes, or eyelashes rubbing against the eye. This can happen when a child’s eyelashes grow in the wrong direction and poke the eyeball, making it itchy or uncomfortable. Naturally, the child wants to rub it.
So if your child also keeps rubbing their eyes often, it’s a good idea to check their eyelashes and see a doctor if needed. Eye health is very important, especially for young kids.
It Might Just Be Tiredness
Sometimes, rubbing eyes is just a sign that your child is sleepy. Just like adults, kids tend to rub their eyes when they feel tired or after waking up.
When your child is rubbing their eyes:
- Do they also yawn or seem cranky?
- Is it close to nap time or bedtime?
If yes, then eye rubbing is likely just part of their way of winding down.
What to do:
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
- Give quiet time before bed.
- Dim the lights to signal it’s bedtime.
A well-rested child usually rubs their eyes less often.
It Could Be Dry Eyes or Screen Time
Dry eyes can make kids rub their eyes often. It happens when the eyes don’t make enough tears or when they blink less.
Kids today look at screens a lot — TVs, tablets, phones. When they do, they blink less, and the eyes get dry.
Signs to watch for:
- Rubbing eyes during or after screen use
- Red or watery eyes
- Complaining of “itchy” or “hot” eyes
What helps:
- Remind them to blink.
- Take screen breaks every 20–30 minutes.
- Use a humidifier if the room is dry.
Itchy Eyes from Allergies
If your child rubs their eyes often, especially during certain seasons, it could be allergies. Allergens like dust, pollen, or pet hair can make the eyes itchy.
Other allergy signs:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Rubbing both eyes at once
What you can try:
- Wash your child’s hands and face after outdoor play.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen days.
- Talk to a doctor about kids' allergy medicine if needed.
Eye Infections or Pink Eye
When rubbing comes with red, sticky, or crusty eyes, it might be an infection. Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is common in kids and spreads easily.
Look for:
- Redness in the white part of the eye
- Yellow or green discharge
- Crust on lashes after sleep
- Rubbing only one eye
If you see these signs:
- Don’t let your child share towels or pillows.
- Clean their hands and face regularly.
- See a doctor. Some eye infections need medicine.
Something in the Eye (Foreign Object)
Sometimes, kids rub their eyes because something is inside—like dust, an eyelash, or even sand.
Signs:
- Sudden rubbing
- Tearing
- Saying “something’s in my eye”
- Avoiding bright light
What to do:
- Gently rinse the eye with clean water.
- Don’t let them keep rubbing—it can scratch the eye.
- If the object doesn’t come out, see a doctor.
Habit or Boredom
Just like thumb-sucking or hair twirling, rubbing eyes can become a habit. Some kids do it when they’re bored or need comfort.
This kind of rubbing is not due to pain or itching. You might notice it when they’re sitting still or watching TV.
Tips to break the habit:
- Give them something else to hold or do.
- Keep their hands busy (like with a soft toy or puzzle).
- Gently remind them to stop when you see it.
Is Eye Rubbing Harmful?
Rubbing eyes a little once in a while is okay. But doing it too much or too hard can hurt.
Too much rubbing can:
- Make eyes red or swollen
- Scratch the cornea (the clear part in front of the eye)
- Spread germs and cause infections
- Lead to a condition called keratoconus, where the cornea becomes weak and cone-shaped
So, if your child rubs their eyes a lot, it’s important to find out why and help them stop.
What Parents Can Do
Here are some simple steps to help your child:
- Keep hands clean: Wash hands often to avoid germs getting into eyes.
- Trim fingernails: This prevents scratching the eyes during rubbing.
- Use a cold compress: A clean, cool wet cloth can soothe itchy or tired eyes.
- Avoid allergens: Clean sheets often, use air purifiers, and limit outdoor time when pollen is high.
- Limit screen time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
When to See a Doctor
You should take your child to the doctor or eye specialist if:
- Eye rubbing happens many times a day
- Eyes look red, swollen, or watery
- There’s discharge or crust around the eyes
- Your child complains of pain or blurry vision
- Rubbing seems to be affecting their daily life
Don’t ignore repeated rubbing—it’s your child’s way of saying something feels wrong.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my toddler rub their eyes before sleeping?
It’s a normal sign of being tired. Eye rubbing often helps them relax and signal bedtime.
Should I stop my child from rubbing their eyes?
Yes, especially if they’re doing it hard or often. Too much rubbing can hurt the eyes.
Can rubbing eyes cause damage?
Yes. It can lead to scratches, infections, or even eye shape problems if done often.
Is eye rubbing always a sign of a problem?
Not always. But if it happens too often or comes with other signs like redness or swelling, it could mean allergies or infection.
What home remedies can help itchy eyes?
Try a cold compress, wash hands often, and use an air purifier. If allergies are the cause, talk to your doctor about safe medications.
