What Causes an Infant to Roll Their Eyes Upward?
May 30, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
In most cases, infants rolling their eyes upward is a physiological phenomenon. This condition is primarily related to the infant’s young age and underdeveloped, uncoordinated periocular muscles, resulting in upward eye deviation. If the infant is alert, feeding normally, and shows no other signs of discomfort, no specific intervention is required. As the child grows, the periocular muscles mature and coordinate properly, and this phenomenon gradually resolves spontaneously.
Even newborn infants, carefully tended by their mothers, may occasionally exhibit upward eye-rolling (i.e., showing the whites of the eyes). What causes this phenomenon in infants?
What Causes Upward Eye-Rolling in Infants?
In most cases, upward eye-rolling in infants is physiological. This phenomenon is commonly associated with the infant’s young age and immature, uncoordinated development of the periorbital muscles, leading to transient upward eye-rolling. If the infant remains alert and active, feeds well, and shows no other signs of distress, no specific intervention is required. As the child grows, the periorbital muscles mature and coordinate, and this condition typically resolves spontaneously.
Upward eye-rolling in infants is usually bilateral and, in medical terms, may be associated with seizures. If an infant exhibits lethargy, fever, or vomiting prior to such episodes, central nervous system (CNS) infection should be strongly suspected. In such cases, lumbar puncture may be necessary at a hospital to confirm the diagnosis. Some children experience seizures without other abnormalities but develop them suddenly during high fever. The key distinction from CNS infection is that, following the seizure, body temperature decreases and the child’s mental status and overall condition return to normal. In this age group, febrile seizures should be considered; consultation with a pediatric neurologist may also be warranted.
In daily care, ensure the infant stays warm and avoid exposure to cold. Encourage adequate rest and sufficient sleep. We hope this information is helpful to you!
