Squint is a condition in which eyes are misaligned and can occur in 3 out of 100 kids. It is common for babies to have intermittent squinting when their visual system is developing and resolves by 3 months of age. But after 3 months, squinting in children can be a sign of various underlying issues, ranging from vision problems to environmental factors. Understanding the potential causes of squinting can help you take the necessary steps to address the issue and ensure your child's eye health.
To understand the causes of squinting in children, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Abhishek Chopra, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, New Delhi. Here are some common causes listed by Dr Chopra.
1. Refractive Errors
According to Dr Chopra, one of the most common reasons children squint is due to refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism. Squinting helps to temporarily improve focus and clarity by reducing the amount of light entering the eye, which sharpens the image. He notes, “If your child is having difficulty seeing clearly, especially when looking at objects at a distance or close up, refractive errors might be the cause.”
2. Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
According to research by StatPearls, strabismus, or crossed eyes, is a condition where the eyes do not align properly when looking at an object. This misalignment can cause one eye to turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards, leading to double vision or difficulty focusing. “Children with strabismus may squint to compensate for the misalignment and to try to see a single, clear image. Early detection is crucial, as untreated strabismus can lead to more severe vision problems like amblyopia (lazy eye),” Dr Chopra said.
3. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, occurs when one eye is weaker than the other, leading the brain to favor the stronger eye. This condition can result from untreated refractive errors or strabismus. According to Dr Chopra, “Children with amblyopia might squint in an attempt to force the weaker eye to focus better. Early intervention is essential to correct amblyopia and prevent long-term vision impairment.”
Also read: What Is Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) In Children: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment
4. Photophobia (Light Sensitivity)
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, can cause children to squint in bright environments. This condition can be due to various factors, such as dry eyes, eye infections, or inflammation. Children with photophobia may squint or cover their eyes when exposed to bright lights, and they might also complain of discomfort or headaches. Dr Chopra warned, “If your child shows signs of photophobia, it's important to consult an eye specialist to determine the underlying cause.”
5. Fatigue or Eye Strain
Prolonged screen time, reading in dim light, or lack of sleep can lead to eye strain and fatigue in children. When the eyes are tired, children may squint to try to focus better and reduce the strain. Encouraging regular breaks from screens, ensuring good lighting for reading, and promoting healthy sleep habits can help alleviate eye strain.
6. Environmental Factors
Sometimes, squinting can be a reaction to environmental factors such as glare, bright sunlight, or dust. Children may squint to protect their eyes from harsh light or to shield them from irritants. In such cases, providing sunglasses with UV protection or ensuring that your child is in a well-lit, comfortable environment can help reduce squinting.
7. Eye Infections or Allergies
As per Dr Chopra, eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), or allergies can cause discomfort, redness, and swelling in the eyes, leading to squinting. If your child is rubbing their eyes frequently, has watery eyes, or shows other signs of infection or allergies, it’s important to seek medical attention. Treating the underlying condition will usually resolve the squinting.
8. Nasal Congestion or Sinus Problems
Nasal congestion or sinus issues can sometimes cause pressure around the eyes, leading to discomfort and squinting. If your child has a cold, allergies, or sinus problems, they may squint as a response to the pressure and pain around the eyes. Addressing the nasal congestion or sinus issues will help alleviate the squinting.
Also read: What Are The Causes Watery Eyes In Babies? Doctor Explains
When to See a Doctor
If your child is squinting frequently, it's important to have their eyes examined by a pediatric ophthalmologist or optometrist. Dr Chopra said, “Early detection and treatment of vision problems are key to ensuring your child's visual development and overall well-being. Treatment options for squint include glasses, patching, exercises and surgery.” Regular eye exams are essential for catching and addressing any vision issues early on. Understanding the potential causes of squinting can help you take the right steps to protect your child's vision and address any underlying issues.