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Childhood Illnesses
and Conditions
: Conjunctivitis in Children
What is conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis or "pinkeye" is an irritation or inflammation of
the conjunctiva which is the covering that lines the inside of
the eyelids and the whites of the eyes.
What causes conjunctivitis
There are 3 major causes:
Infectious conjunctivitis(probably the
most common): Caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
Allergic conjunctivitis :Due to airborne
pollen or dust or something put into the eye, such as contact
lens solutions.
Chemical conjunctivitis: Many types
of chemicals like sprays, perfumes, deodorants, household cleaners,
can irritate the conjunctiva.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
Red or pink eye
Itchiness or irritation(like feeling "sand" in the eye)
Watery eyes
Eye pain
A thick, sticky, yellowish discharge. (In viral conjunctivitis,
the discharge is usually clear)
Is infectious conjunctivitis contagious?
YES.Many types of bacteria and viruses can cause conjunctivitis
in children. These germs can pass from person to person through
contact with infected body fluids such as eye discharge and can
also spread on a child's hands if he/she rubs or wipes his/her
infected eyes. It is important that children not share towels
or washcloths and that they wash before and after meals or touching
their facial area. The same goes for parents or caretakers after
they have contacted the facial or eye area of a child with infectious
conjunctivitis.
How is conjunctivitis treated?
The treatment depends on the cause:
Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotics,
either eye drops or ointment. With certain types of bacteria,
oral antibiotics may be needed. Gentle eye compresses using clean
cotton ball or washcloths soaked in warm water may help,especially
before applying any prescribed antibiotic drops or ointment. Ask
your doctor when your child can return to school.
Viral conjunctivitis cannot be treated with antibiotics
effectively, but it usually clears up on its own after a few days.
Viral conjunctivitis is also contagious, so follow your doctor's
advice about when your child can return to school. Warm compresses
may help too.
Allergic conjunctivitis is usually treated with oral
antihistamines and decongestants or with antihistamine eye drops.
Cold compresses may also help.
When to seek medical attention
Call your doctor if your child has any of the following symptoms:
Unusually red, itchy, or watery eyes
Puffy or swollen eyes
Thick, sticky, yellowish discharge from the eyes
Eyelids that look crusty or stick together when your child awakens
Your child complains that the vision is not normal
The area under the lower eyelid is red or swollen
Important:
Chemical conjunctivitis may be a medical emergency, depending
on the chemical involved. If your child has gotten a chemical
in the eyes, flush the area gently with cool, running water for
at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention immediately.
Other Childhood Illnesses
and Conditions |
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The information provided in this site is
designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to
replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is
it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If
you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always
consult a physician.
© Autograph Communications Inc.,
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