Conjunctivitis is a common condition in children, caused by inflammation of the conjunctiva – the clear membrane that covers the front surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. It is often caused by a bacterial or viral infection but can also be caused by an allergy, irritant or object in the eye (such as dust, sand or chemicals). In newborn babies, it can develop from blocked or narrowed tear ducts.
Often called ‘pink eye’, conjunctivitis causes the white part of the eye to become pink or red. The eyes may also be watery, puffy, sensitive to light, itchy and/or sore. If a child has bacterial conjunctivitis, they will often have a yellow or green sticky discharge which makes their eyelids stick together after they have been asleep. Otherwise, the discharge is likely to be clear. Depending on the cause, it can affect one or both of the eyes.
If you think your child has an eye infection, it is important to see your GP so they can determine the cause and recommend the right treatment. This could include antibiotic eye drops or ointment if the infection is bacterial or antihistamine eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis. Viral infections improve without treatment. It can also help to keep your child’s eye clean by washing gently with a cotton gauze swab (which you can buy from your chemist) soaked in warm water, several times per day.
It is particularly important to take your child to see your GP if:
The infection doesn’t clear up after 3-4 days, despite treatment
The area around their eye or eyelid becomes swollen, red or painful
They have problems with vision
They also have a fever and are not feeling well
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be contagious, so it is important to avoid spreading the infection. You can do this by:
Always washing your hands after touching your child’s eyes
Not sharing towels or face cloths
Washing your child’s hands regularly and try to stop them from rubbing their eyes
Keeping your child home from childcare, preschool or school until the eye discharge has completely stopped
For more information visit: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/conjunctivitis
References:
https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/conjunctivitis
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/conjunctivitis
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/conjunctivitis
