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Frequent blinking

The following information provides a guide for GPs on how to manage or make a referral for presentation of Frequent blinking in children.

  • Low risk pathology

    • Frequent blinking, or eye rolling, frequent “looking to the side”
      Nearly always habitual and no underlying condition especially if eyes are not red or itchy seeing well.
    • Possible causes are glasses prescription, mild blepharitis or eye allergy, squint.

     

    GP: assess appearance of eyes – red or appearance of a squint?

    Refer to local optometrist: for GOS sight test and eye surface assessment if over 4 years old.

Referral information

If possible, attach photo of eye to e-referral

Always include:

  • Child’s date of birth
  • Address
  • Child’s social worker details (including Borough), if any
  • Parent/carer contact phone number and email

 

GP Management

Generally no need to refer to hospital if eyes appear normal +/or optometrist has undertaken assessment and nothing serious found.

Reassure and ask parents to try and ignore otherwise can reinforce the behaviour if elicits a lot of parental attention or anxiety. 

 

Further Assistance

This pathway has been produced by Moorfields Eye Hospital to help clinicians manage the healthcare of children and young people. However, if you need to contact a paediatric clinician, please see below for contact details:

Moorfields Eye Hospital:

Paediatric helpline: 0207 2533411 extn 4569, Mon- Fri 10:00am-13:00pm then 14:00pm-16:00pm

 

Last updated: April 2021