Hi Kylesmom,

Your toddler may have ocular (eye) allergy. The odds of your child having allergy problems is increased by; one or both parents having allergy problems; brothers or sisters having a history of allergy problems (hayfever, asthma or eczema); your toddler having other allergy problems such as allergic eczema, asthma or nasal allergy; or your toddler also having food allergy.

There are other problems which may cause the eyes to appear red or pink. Infection from a bacteria or virus, chemical irritation and foreign body are a few possibilities. A foreign body is less likely the cause when both eyes are involved. Although there is no discharge or swelling, infection cannot be ruled out without further examination.

I recommend having your family doctor or pediatrician evaluate your child as soon as possible. Most eye drops for allergy symptom are not approved for children under 6. A full evaluation and eye exam should be done followed by selection of a suitable eye drop. The diagnosis needs to be made before medication is given. Sterile saline drops for the eyes may provide some relief until the doctor visit.

J. Thompson, MD