Pediatric Eye Dilation

[Mom4131]

My 11 yr. old daughter had her eyes dilated over 24 hrs. ago and they are still dilated. She has been complaining of a slight headache most of the day but now she says her headache is really bad. She was diagnosed 3 years ago as a hyper- allergic person ( very sensitive to many allergens). Could this have something to do with this situation and should I be concerned?

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

No it would have more to do with what drops were put in, some wear off in hours others days, others weeks  and what color her eyes are, drops last longer in blue, gray green and wear off fastest in dark brown eyes.

Call the "eye doctor" and ask what was used. Next time ask if a milder drop can be used.

JC MD

[Mom4131]

I called the doctor and he stated that he used the strongest pediatric eye drops. He also said that he would put in her chart to use the milder eye drops. My daughter has blue eyes.
My main concern now is that her headache is getting worse even though she has taken ibuprofen. How long should I wait before I have her evaluated?

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

If the head pain as a stand alone problem (disregard the dilated pupil for a moment) is bad enough that you would usually call your pediatrician or go to the ER then call your pediatrician or go to the ER.

If the headache is not bad enough to take these actions then you might try aspirin or tylenol.

JCH MD