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Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
Q: My baby sneezes a few times throughout the day and his eyes sometimes look glassy and red. Could he have allergies? What can I do to relieve the symptoms?
A: Babies' sneezes do not always signal allergies, colds, or other illness-related conditions. Sometimes, sneezes are just nature's way of allowing him to clear his nasal passages. However, the combination of the sneezing with glassy red eyes are more likely to be indicative of some allergic reaction. Become an "allergy detective;" Try to determine if there is some offending agent in his immediate environment. Consider common allergy-provoking agents such as dust, mold, mildew, tobacco smoke, animal hair, new food offerings, new clothing, or any intense fragrance. If you suspect one or more of these things are causing the problem, remove the possible offender and watch for improvement.
To offer immediate relief for his eye symptoms, apply clean, cool, wet washcloths over his eyes for 20 to 30 seconds at a time. Normal saline (salt water) nose drops, suctioned out with an infant nasal aspirator, may relieve the "tickle" sensation in his nose which usually precedes sneezing. This maneuver also helps to remove small nasal mucus plugs which contribute to congestion and sneezes in infants. If despite taking these steps his symptoms don't subside or worsen, you should consult with his pediatrician who may suggest a full evaluation to better pinpoint allergies.
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