Symptoms

Symptoms of Possible Eye Problems in Children

Choose a preferred language

Keep a close watch on the way your child looks and acts and what they say. This can help to find and treat eye problems early. Often parents, grandparents, or caregivers are the first to notice problems.


What are the symptoms of eye problems in children?

Below are symptoms of possible eye problems. But symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:

  • Blurred or double vision.

  • Crossed eyes.

  • Eyes that turn in or out and don’t focus.

  • Eyes that are red or swollen.

  • Eyes that are sensitive to light.

  • Eyes that seem to bulge.

  • Drainage or extra tearing from the eyes.

  • Squinting.

  • Your child rubbing their eyes a lot.

  • Seeing a white reflection in your child's eye or eyes in a photograph.

  • Your child has trouble reading or holds reading material close to the face.

  • Your child tilts their head to see.

  • Your child has trouble or avoids doing "close-up" tasks.

  • "Jiggly" or dancing eyes.

  • Eyes that are too large or too small.

  • A droopy eyelid.

  • Headaches.

  • A short attention span

The symptoms of eye problems may look like other health conditions. Always talk with your child's doctor for a diagnosis.

Featured in

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read article
Eye Care
Signs of Eye Problems in Children

Eye problems can happen at any age. Here are some signs, behaviors, and comments that might mean your child is having vision problems.

Read article
Eye Care
Particle in the Eye (Child)

A conjunctival foreign body is a very small object, such as an eyelash or dirt, that has become trapped under the eyelid. Learn what to do at home for your child and when to call your child's health care provider.

Read article
Eye Care
Corneal Abrasion (Child)

A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the cornea. Corneal abrasions cause severe eye pain, inability to open the eye, blurred vision, watery eyes, and sensitivity to light. The eye may become red and swollen.

Read article
Eye Care
When Your Child Has a Stye

A stye is a common problem in children. It's an infection that appears as a red bump or swelling near the rim of the upper or lower eyelid.