3 year old has corner of one eye red and irritated

[Cydmi]

The inside corner of my 3 year olds right eye looks red and irritated. He is not complaining of it, but it’s been over a week. It almost looks a little swollen. Could he have an eyelash stuck in it? At what point do we seek intervention? Wouldn’t it be both eyes if it were an allergy? He does often stick his finger there and rubs it, and I remind him not to do this when I catch him, but I’m not sure how to proceed.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Most allergies are bilateral and have other symptoms such as sneezing and the eyes itch (unless its a contact allergy where something like poison ivy has come into contact with one eye).   I would suggest you see your pediatrician or family doctor. If it were an infection (conjunctivitis) there is usually pus sticking eye shut in morning.