Excessive Eye Blinking: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Excessive eye blinking is a common concern across all age groups. Blinking (a natural reflex that spreads tears and clears debris) keeps the eyes healthy. But if it becomes excessive, it could point to anything from irritations to neurological disorders.

Therefore, it is crucial to determine the causes, signs, and effective treatments of constant blinking. This will help start prompt intervention and safeguard eye health. 

What is Excessive Blinking?

Excessive blinking means blinking more than the normal rate. In adults, normal rate  is about 14 to 17 times a minute. The blinking rates might differ depending on environmental factors, emotional state, and health status. Excessive blinking of the eye is considered a problem when it affects the daily lives of sufferers or is triggered by accompanying symptoms like discomfort, changes in vision, or pain sensations. It may be continuous or intermittent and can affect one or both eyes.

Common Causes of Excessive Eye Blinking

Excessive blinking in the eyes may have a wide range of causes, ranging from benign to more serious. The most common among these include:

• Dry Eyes: Areas of dryness arise due to the decreased production of tears or poor tear quality. This will cause the eyes to blink more frequently to lubricate the surface.
• Blepharitis: Chronic inflammation of the eyelids is often caused by bacterial overgrowth. It can lead to irritation and episodes of uncontrollable blinking.
• Eye Allergies: An allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or pet dander can cause the eyes to become itchy, red, and watery. As a result, it triggers excessive eye blinking.
• Eye Infection: Conditions of the eye, such as conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye), can cause the eye to become red and produce discharge. Eyes combat this issue with excessive blinking.
• Corneal Abrasion: A scratch or injury to the cornea (the clear, front part of the eye) can cause pain and excessive blinking.
• Foreign Body: Dust, debris, or an ingrown eyelash can irritate the eye and cause constant blinking.
• Refractive Errors: Uncorrected vision problems, such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, can cause excessive blinking in children as a means to see more clearly.
• Eye Strain: Prolonged use of digital devices may reduce the blink rate initially. However, dryness or fatigue can lead to compensatory blinking later.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like blepharospasm (involuntary eyelid twitching), Tourette syndrome, or other movement disorders can cause uncontrolled blinking of the eyes.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, or habit tics can also increase blinking frequency.
• Post-eye Surgery: Some people may experience increased blinking temporarily while healing from procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery.

Symptoms of Excessive Blinking

Excessive blinking often presents with other signs. They can help narrow the search for the underlying cause:

• Redness or irritation of the eyes
• Watery or dry eyes
• Photophobia
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Discharge from the eyes
• Difficulty focusing or squinting

If excessive blinking persists or is accompanied by loss of vision, pain, or neurological symptoms, you should get a prompt medical evaluation.

Excessive Blinking in Children vs Adults

Excessive blinking can affect children and adults differently. Here’s how:

• Children: Incessant blinking in children is often due to minor irritations, uncorrected refractive errors, or habit tics. Sometimes, this is merely a temporary behaviour that may resolve independently. However, persistent blinking should be evaluated to rule out conditions such as eye misalignment (i.e., strabismus) or neurological issues. 
• Adults: Excessive blinking in adults is more likely to be related to dry eye, blepharitis, allergy, or eye strain. Neurological causes, such as blepharospasm, and psychological factors may also contribute.

Diagnosis of Excessive Blinking

When excessive blinking becomes apparent, the cause is diagnosed through an in-depth eye examination and medical history. The evaluation may consist of:

• Visual Acuity Testing: To check for any refractive errors.
• Slit-Lamp Examination: A detailed examination to evaluate for dry eye, conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or corneal abrasions by examining the surface, eyelids, and cornea.
• Assessment for Allergies or Infection: Check for symptoms of conjunctivitis, discharge, or allergic reaction.
• Neurological Evaluation: Further evaluation may be necessary for suspected movement disorders or tics.
• Review of Medications and Medical History: Certain medications can have side effects that include excessive blinking.

In some cases, corneal staining, tear film analysis, or imaging studies may be required as part of the assessment.

Treatment for Excessive Eye Blinking

Treatment for excessive blinking largely depends on the underlying cause. It can comprise of medical management, surgical procedures, or home remedies.

Medical Treatment

• Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops: For dry eyes, over-the-counter or prescription lubricants can relieve symptoms.
• Antibiotic or Anti-inflammatory Drops: Blepharitis is treated with drops that fight eye infections and inflammation.
• Antihistamines: Oral and topical medications can reduce symptoms of eye allergies.
• Corrective Lenses: Prescription glasses or lenses may be needed for refractive errors.
• Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Some cases may require tackling systemic diseases or neurological disorders.
• Eye Patch: It may be prescribed to protect the eye and support healing in cases like corneal abrasions or recovery after eye surgery.

Surgical Treatment

• Correction of Eyelid Abnormalities: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to correct eyelid structure or eye alignment issues such as strabismus.
• Treatment of Neurological Disorders: Botulinum toxin injections may be used in severe cases of blepharospasm or other movement disorders.

Home Remedies for Excessive Eye Blinking

For mild cases, the following home remedies may help:

• Warm Compresses: Soaking a warm, moist cloth around the eyes can reduce symptoms of blepharitis and soothe irritation.
  
  
• Proper Eye Hygiene: Regular cleaning of the eyelids with a gentle cleanser can help reduce bacterial overgrowth.
  
  
• Avoiding Allergens: Limit exposure to allergens like pollen or dust by keeping windows closed and using air purifiers during high-risk seasons.
  
  
• Limited Screen Time: Take frequent breaks during screen use to minimise digital eye strain and constant blinking.
  
  
• Adequate Hydration: Drinking sufficient water helps support tear production.
  
  
• Stress Reduction: Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to address psychological triggers.
  
  
• Avoid Rubbing the Eyes: Rubbing may worsen irritation and increase blinking.
  
  

If the symptoms have not improved after home remedies, you need to see an eye care professional for further evaluation.

Conclusion

Excessive blinking may result from a number of factors. Most cases are benign and can be treated with simple measures or self-care. However, persistent or intense symptoms may need a thorough eye examination. 

Identify the cause early, and you can prevent long-term complications. If you or your child experiences uncontrolled blinking eyes or other concerning symptoms, consult an eye care specialist to address the cause. You must determine the most suitable excessive eye blinking treatment at the earliest and minimise damage.