Infants and young children do not have a sophisticated enough vocabulary to tell their parents they do not feel wel, so parents rely on their ability to detect changes in their children's appearance or actions to notice a problem. Eye conditions that cause soreness will often have visible signs like redness or tearing that give parents clues to the issue. Knowing some of the causes of a sore eye in a baby may help a parent determine her child's condition.
Conjunctivitis
Eye infections such as conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, may cause a baby's eye(s) to feel sore and irritated. Symptoms will vary, but may include redness, itching and a discharge from the affected eye(s). If conjunctivitis results from a bacteria or virus, the infection will easily spread from one eye to the other, as well as to other family members. If caused by a virus, such as the common cold, the infection will clear up on its own. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require a prescription eye drop to treat the infection. A compress of warm or cool water, depending on what feels best to the child, may offer some relief, says Kids Health.
Blocked Tear Duct
A blocked tear duct may cause a baby's eye to feel sore. A blockage may occur as a result of incomplete formation of the duct, which is found in corner of the eyelid near the nose. Excessive watering may accompany the sore eye. Usually, by the first year of life, a baby's duct will mature and open, says the University of Illinois at Chicago. Some infants may require antibiotics or gentle massage near the tear duct to encourage the blockage to clear. In severe cases, a doctor may have to perform a surgical procedure to repair the duct and clear away the blockage.
Blepharitis
Some babies may have inflamed eyelids, a condition called blepharitis. This may cause soreness and irritation of the eye, as well as red, flakey eyelids, particularly in the area close to the eyelashes. Treatment may consist of eye drops or ointment to reduce inflammation. However, good eyelid hygiene may help resolve the symptoms and prevent recurrence. To wash a baby's eyelids, a parent should mix a small amount of baby shampoo with water and, with a gentle stroke, wash the eyelids. This clears away debris such as the dead skin cells and opens pores so the lids can heal, explains the Baby Center.
