Children's eyes not closing completely during sleep

Children may experience incomplete eyelid closure during sleep due to factors such as immature physiological development, improper sleeping posture, excessive excitement before bedtime, blepharitis, or facial nerve paralysis. This condition can be improved through adjustments in care practices, habit modifications, and medical treatment. If symptoms are accompanied by eye pain, abnormal discharge, or persist over time, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Immature physiological development: In infants and young children, underdeveloped eyelid muscles result in weaker control over eyelid closure, which may lead to mild lagophthalmos (incomplete eye closure) during sleep. Monitor symptom progression; the condition typically resolves naturally with age and does not require specific intervention.

2. Improper sleeping posture: Elevated head position or lateral sleeping that presses on the eyes can interfere with normal eyelid closure. Adjust sleeping posture, use a pillow of appropriate height, avoid eye compression, and maintain a neutral head position.

3. Excessive excitement before bedtime: Intense play or prolonged use of electronic devices before sleep can cause nervous system arousal, making it difficult for the eye muscles to fully relax and close during sleep. It is recommended to remain calm during the hour before bedtime, avoid vigorous activities, and reduce screen time.

4. Blepharitis: Inflammation caused by bacterial infection of the eyelids leads to redness, swelling, and pain, impairing eyelid closure and often accompanied by increased eye discharge. Under medical guidance, medications such as tobramycin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, or levofloxacin eye drops may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Facial nerve paralysis: Viral infection or cold exposure affecting the facial nerves can cause abnormal eyelid muscle movement, resulting in incomplete eye closure, possibly accompanied by slight drooping of the mouth corner. Patients may take medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or ribavirin granules as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.

Maintain good eye hygiene, avoid rubbing the eyes, cleanse the face before bedtime, ensure sufficient sleep, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, and protect the eyes from cold exposure to support normal ocular development.