HomeAnswersPediatricseye rubbingWhat are the reasons for a baby to rub their eyes frequently?

Why do babies rub their eyes frequently?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 7, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 12, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Why do babies rub their eyes? What are possible reasons for a baby to frequently rub their eyes? Please elaborate as much as possible.

Answered by Dr. Preeti Puranik

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

  1. Babies may experience watering from their eyes due to a narrow nasolacrimal duct, which causes blockage and lacrimation due to which they rub. This can be reduced by regular ocular massage.

  2. Older infants rub their eyes, ears, and also pull their hair, as they keep playing and exploring their body parts. This reduces soon once they get the feel of it. They then switch over to toys.

  3. Third most likely cause is allergic conjunctivitis, mainly due to dust, which causes irritation and hence the child rubs his eyes.

  4. Other infectious conditions and viral fevers can also lead to irritation, which may make the child rub their eyes.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Preeti Puranik
Dr. Preeti Puranik

Pediatrics

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

eye infectioneye rubbing

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pediatrics

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy