Ever wondered why do babies rub their eyes and nose constantly? Read this article to find out the reason!
Babies Rubbing Heir Eyes and Nose
Babies rubbing their eyes is perhaps the cutest thing you will see. Generally, babies rub their eyes when they are tired or sleepy. Still, sometimes, the baby might also be experiencing pain or discomfort due to dust particles or an eyelash in the eyes, an eye infection, or an allergy. Young infants may just be exercising the newborn reflexes, and it is normal for them to bring their hands to their face. Let’s learn why do babies rub their eyes and nose in the following parts of the article.
Why Do Babies Rub Their Eyes and Nose?
1. Fatigue
All that they are looking around takes a toll on the baby’s eyes and brain. When they are mentally and physically exhausted, babies tend to rub their eyes, hinting that it’s time for a nap.
2. Eye Irritation
The baby’s eyes are more delicate than ours and are exposed to various environmental allergens. Dry air, dusty rooms, the beach or the park, pollen season are all times where the little eyes get irritated. This irritation can result in redness, fussiness, watering, and eye rubbing.
3. Eye Infection
If the baby was exposed to pink eye or if they’ve been sick with any virus recently, you may want to keep conjunctivitis in mind. Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as Pink eye, usually presents with redness, crustiness, and oozing. Itching may be present initially before it worsens.
4. Eye Strain
When they are straining to see clearly due to a visual impairment, they usually get tired and rub their eyes. Visual problems are not common in newborns, but few babies show signs of impairment like refractive errors and cataracts by six months. It is advisable to visit the pediatrician regularly and get a proper eye examination done.
5. Teething
It is less likely but could still be the reason for the baby’s peak of a teething phase. Particularly the upper teeth can cause soreness and pain high enough on the face making the baby rub their eyes to soothe the ache. Occasionally, you must have also noticed your child rubbing and scratching their nose. Initially, it may seem like it was only an itch, but it may result in the baby constantly touching their nose, which needs to be checked.
6. Irritation in Nose
The baby might have a bit of dirt or a booger that is irritating them. The baby can’t blow their nose, so you need to help them out by teaching them to blow their nose.
7. Issues with Bedding
Dirty and dusty bedding can irritate the baby’s nose resulting in constant touching of the nose.
8. Cough and Cold
The little one could have a cold and, as a result, may have a runny nose. You need to give the baby some medicine and keep their nose clear and moisturized.
Why Stop Kids From Rubbing Eyes and Nose?
If you think the baby is rubbing their eyes or nose for reasons besides lack of sleep and teething, or if you are suspicious if the baby might have an allergy, it is advisable to schedule a check-up with the pediatrician. Rubbing the eyes frequently may worsen eyesight in the long term and also increase the risk of infection.