Does your child have sticky eyes or a pink/red eye? Has their daycare or school informed you that they can’t attend?
Conjunctivitis symptoms vary but typically include increased tear production, itching, irritation, burning, and crusting of the eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning. Here’s a guide for parents on types, treatment, and care for conjunctivitis.
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1. Types of Conjunctivitis
Neonatal Conjunctivitis: Often due to infection, irritation, or a blocked tear duct in newborns.
Viral Conjunctivitis: Usually causes watery discharge rather than thick discharge.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Typically associated with a pus-like discharge that can make eyelids stick together.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Characterized by intense itching, tearing, and swelling of the eyes.
Conjunctivitis from Irritants: May result in watery eyes and mucus discharge.
2. When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical care if your child has:
Conjunctivitis symptoms as a newborn—these should be seen by a doctor the same day.
Eye pain.
Intense redness in one or both eyes.
Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve.
Sensitivity to light or blurred vision that doesn’t clear when discharge is wiped away.
3. Treatment
It’s not always necessary to see a doctor for conjunctivitis, but keep your child’s eyes clean by gently wiping them with clean water (or cooled, boiled water). Cold compresses can help relieve inflammation and dryness.
Tip: WALA Euphrasia Eye Drops (a homeopathic remedy) or Saline Solution (NaCl 0.9%)* can soothe red, irritated, watery, or allergic eyes. Consult a doctor if there’s no improvement within 2 days.
Viral Conjunctivitis: Only the symptoms can be treated.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Antibiotics might be recommended, but it often improves within 2–5 days on its own and clears completely in about 2 weeks.
Rest: Keep your child home from daycare or school until the infection is no longer contagious.
Caution with Medications: Not all over-the-counter medicines are safe for children of every age. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist for the correct dosage based on your child’s age and size.
4. How Infectious Is It?
Whether conjunctivitis is contagious depends on its cause. If caused by pathogens, it can be transmitted to others, often through contact, such as touching an infected eye and then shaking hands. Some germs survive on surfaces and can transfer from shared items like toys. Practicing good hygiene can reduce the spread.
5. When Will It Get Better?
Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and will clear up within 7 to 14 days without treatment, with no long-term effects.
6. Prevention
To prevent spreading or worsening conjunctivitis, follow strict hygiene:
Wash hands frequently.
Avoid rubbing or touching eyes with unwashed hands.
Avoid sharing items like towels, pillows, or toys.
Following these tips can help relieve symptoms, prevent the spread, and keep your child comfortable while they recover.
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