Infant itchy eyes: what parents should know

Allergic Conjunctivitis can cause itching, watering, and puffy eyelids in both eyes. Allergic Rhinitis may occur alongside sneezing or a runny, blocked nose. House Dust Mite Allergy or Pet Allergy can trigger symptoms after exposure. Irritation from dust, shampoo, dry air, or rubbing can look similar. A sticky discharge, marked one-sided redness, or tenderness may point to infection or another eye problem rather than allergy.

Infants cannot describe blurred vision or pain, so watch their behaviour. Note whether they rub one or both eyes, whether symptoms follow a particular room or animal, and whether the eyelids are becoming more swollen.

Wash your hands before touching the eye. Gently wipe discharge with clean water and a fresh soft pad for each eye, using a separate direction for each wipe. Reduce exposure to smoke, fragrances, dust, and suspected triggers. Keep fingernails short to limit scratching. Do not use another person’s drops or any Allergy Medication unless a clinician recommends a product and dose suitable for your infant.

Seek urgent care for severe eyelid swelling, eye pain, light sensitivity, a bulging eye, injury, chemical exposure, or any concern that vision is affected. Arrange prompt medical advice for fever with a swollen or red eyelid, thick discharge, symptoms in a newborn, or redness that is worsening. Emergency help is needed if facial swelling comes with breathing difficulty or marked sleepiness.

Does this look more like allergy, irritation, or infection? Should we change anything around dust or pets? Which cleaning method is appropriate? Are drops needed, and how should they be used safely?