Excessive blinking is more frequent or forceful blinking than usual. It can be voluntary, habitual, or triggered by ocular or neurological factors.
Common Causes
Dry eye, allergies, surface irritation, and uncorrected refractive error often lead to increased blinking as the eye attempts to lubricate or clear discomfort. In children, tics and habit spasms are frequent, while adults may develop excessive blinking with blepharospasm, anxiety, or contact lens problems.
- Bright light and stress can exacerbate blinking in susceptible individuals
- Neurological conditions and some medications can alter blink rate
- Parkinson’s disease may reduce, rather than increase, blinking
- Underlying psychological factors contribute to some habitual blinking
Evaluation and Care
A careful history and examination identify ocular surface disease, refractive error, or movement disorders. Treatment targets the cause, from lubricants and glasses to behavioural strategies or botulinum toxin.
- Most childhood blinking tics resolve spontaneously over time
- Persistent or disabling blinking may need multidisciplinary management
- Parents should avoid drawing excessive attention to benign tics
- Protective and tinted lenses help when light sensitivity is a trigger
