Why Is My Baby Rubbing Their Eyes?
When you see your baby rubbing their eyes, it's normal for parents to wonder what could be causing this behavior. In most situations, it's a very normal and natural action, though it can be alarming at times. Eye rubbing is one of the ways that babies communicate or deal with different situations as they explore and react to their environment.
1. Feeling Tired or Sleepy
One of the most common reasons why babies rub their eyes is simply feeling tired. When they're tired, babies may rub their eyes as a self-soothing method or to signal that they're ready for a nap or bedtime. Because they cannot verbally express their fatigue, babies, especially younger ones, use eye rubbing as a way to communicate their need for rest.
- Signs of tiredness: Eye rubbing and yawning.
- How to help: Recognize these signs and help your baby fall asleep. Your baby will sleep better if you have a calming routine or a peaceful environment.
2. Allergies or Irritation
Babies may also rub their eyes due to irritation or allergies. Allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander can cause babies’ eyes to feel itchy, watery, or uncomfortable, prompting them to rub their eyes to relieve the sensation.
- Symptoms of allergies: Skin rashes, sneezing, or watery eyes are signs.
- How to help: Use air purifiers, keep your baby's surroundings tidy, and consult your pediatrician if you think your child may have allergies.
3. Eye Infection (Conjunctivitis)
In some cases, rubbing their eyes might indicate an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye). If the rubbing is accompanied by redness, discharge, or swelling, it might be a sign of an infection that requires medical attention.
- Symptoms to watch for: Excessive tearing, yellow or green discharge, and red or swollen eyes.
- How to help: It's best to see your doctor for treatment if you observe these symptoms.
4. Teething
Some babies rub their eyes during teething, which may seem unrelated. In trying to self-soothe from the pain of swollen gums, a baby might rub their eyes. The pressure of teething pain may affect their entire face, causing them to accidentally rub or touch their eyes.
- Signs of teething: Drooling, chewing on objects, irritability, and eye rubbing.
- How to help: Provide gum massages, teething rings, or appropriate pain relief by speaking with your pediatrician.
5. Dryness or Foreign Particles
Your baby may rub their eyes to try to get rid of anything that gets in them, such as an eyelash or a dust particle. Additionally, your baby's eyes may feel dry or uncomfortable and rub if the air is dry or if they are in a heated room.
- Signs of irritation: Blinking frequently, watery eyes, or red eyes.
- How to help: Use a gentle cloth to gently wipe your baby's eyes, and make sure the humidity levels in their surroundings are suitable.
6. Habit or Exploration
As babies grow, they begin to learn about their bodies and their surroundings. Rubbing their eyes can sometimes be a simple habit or an exploration. Babies are learning to coordinate with their hands. They may rub their eyes just out of curiosity or as part of their sensory development.
- Signs of curiosity: Making facial expressions and reaching for their face or eyes.
- How to help: Let your infant explore, but keep their nails clipped to prevent them from scratching.
Conclusion
It's usually completely normal for babies to rub their eyes, and the phenomenon can be explained by a variety of factors, including curiosity, allergies, fatigue, and teething.However, if you have any concerns about your baby's behavior, especially if rubbing the eyes is accompanied by redness or discharge, it's best to talk to your pediatrician.You can keep your baby comfortable and healthy by knowing the symptoms and triggers.
In the meantime, using a baby monitor is a great way to keep an eye on your little one's health, especially if you can't always be there for them. The VT302 baby monitor enables you to track your baby's movements and even remotely soothe them when necessary, providing peace of mind for busy parents.