Symptoms

Symptoms of Possible Eye Problems in Children

Choose a preferred language

Careful attention to your child’s physical appearance, behavioral changes, and complaints can help to find and treat eye disorders 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 turn in or out and don’t focus

  • Eyes are red and/or swollen

  • Eyes are sensitive to light

  • Eyes seem to bulge

  • Drainage or excessive tearing from the eyes

  • Squinting

  • Your child rubs 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

  • Droopy eyelid

  • Headaches

  • Short attention span

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

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Haupert MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Whitney Seltman MD

Date Last Reviewed: 02/01/2023

© 2000-2025 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.

Find a doctor that's right for you.

From routine check-ups to groundbreaking treatments and beyond, Crestner Health is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Search our doctors
Related Articles
Read article
Eye Care
Eye Safety and First Aid

Detailed information on eye safety and tips to avoid eye injury

Read article
Eye Care
Coloboma (Child)

Coloboma is a defect of one or both eyes that is present at birth. With coloboma, a part of the eye is missing a piece of its tissue.

Read article
Eye Care
Corneal Abrasions in Children

A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the cornea. This is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Learn details about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Read article
Eye Care
Conjunctivitis in Children

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye. The conjunctiva is the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the eyeball. Conjunctivitis is also known as “pink eye.”