13 year-old said his eyes wouldn't open today

[AnneSoCal]

My 13 year-old son told me that at school today he was at his locker, blinked and then couldn't open his eyes all the way. They didn't hurt, he was inside so there was no sunlight, he just couldn't get them to open all the way. He said it scared him, which is unusual, so I know it had to be pretty severe.

He wears prescription glasses and has never had any problems with his eyes. Although he has complained that they hurt sometimes.

Any thoughts?

[Christopher C Shen, MD]

If it occurred as an isolated incident, probably nothing to worry about. But if it's persistent, should probably be evaluated by an ophthalmologist for any evidence of inflammation within the eye that can sometimes cause light sensitivity.  The other possibility is the inability to open his eye is related to his eyelids themselves.  Either way, better to get a thorough evaluation especially if the problem has not gone away.

[AnneSoCal]

Thank you for your response. So far, it seemed to be an isolated incident. I did take him for an eye exam last week and the doctor said everything looked okay, so I'm not worried for now. If it happens again though, I'll definitely get a more thorough test done.

Thank you again!