Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the thin covering that protects the eye. It is commonly called "pink eye." There are many ways an eye can become inflamed. It can become infected by viruses or bacteria. It can be irritated by too much sun or by coming in contact with chemicals such as chlorine. The following handout gives you more information about conjunctivitis.
Causes of conjunctivitis include:
- allergies
- chemicals
- viruses
- bacteria
Children under age five years are most prone to bacterial or viral conjunctivitis (pink eye).
Symptoms
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
- red, watery, itching, burning eyes
- swollen eyelids; and sensitivity to light
- a yellow/green discharge may cause the eyelids to crust over and stick together during the night
- pink eye may accompany a middle ear infection.
Spread
Conjunctivitis can be spread by:
- viral and bacterial infections can be spread by contact with the secretions from the eyes, nose, and throat
- if the cause is bacterial, the infection will be contagious until 24 hours after antibiotic treatment is begun
Treatment
Treatment of conjunctivitis includes:
- keep your child's eyes wiped free of discharge
- avoid contact with eye drainage
- dispose of contaminated tissues
- encourage frequent handwashing by the child and household members; this will help to prevent spread to others
- clean and disinfect mouthed toys and try to prevent sharing of toys when conjunctivitis is evident
- use prescription medication as directed
Improvement should be seen in two to three days. If your child develops redness, swelling, fever, or facial pain in the surrounding tissue, or symptoms worsen, please call your doctor.
