Question
A four-year-old child has recently been observed to frequently blink and has a decreased appetite. The trace element examination shows a slight deficiency. What could cause these symptoms? The child’s physical examination results are normal, and the child has previously taken calcium and zinc supplements.
Answer
If a child frequently blinks and accompanies it with eye rubbing or reports discomfort, they may have conjunctivitis or trachoma, among other eye diseases. It is recommended to visit an ophthalmologist immediately for a slit lamp examination to confirm the cause and receive treatment. Also, maintain eye hygiene, teach the child to wash their hands frequently, and not to rub their eyes with their hands. If blinking is accompanied by shoulder twitches, unusual facial expressions, or head shaking, it may be childhood tic disorder, and the child should consult a pediatrician for a follow-up appointment.