Pinkeye is a common eye infection that causes discoloration and irritation in one or both eyes. Children are highly susceptible to pinkeye, as certain types are contagious, and children can easily spread the infection to each other. Pinkeye is usually treated with eye drops and generally goes away in a few days.
Definition
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an eye condition that causes an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and part of the eyeball. The irritation causes the eye to become pink or red. There are several types of pinkeye, classified by the cause of the condition.
Causes
There are several causes of pink eye in children including bacterium and viruses. Children are susceptible to viral and bacterial pinkeye, as they are both very contagious. In fact, according to Mayo Clinic, bacterial pinkeye is more common in children than adults. Pinkeye can also be caused by allergic reactions and eye irritation.
Symptoms
Pinkeye can affect one or both eyes. Inflammation of the conjunctiva causes blood vessels in the eye to become more prominent, resulting in a pink-colored eye. Aside from the color change, your child may experience itchiness in the eye, tearing, swelling and an increased eye discharge that causes crust buildup during the night. Viruses and bacterium can also cause colds and sore throats, which may appear along with the pinkeye.
Contagiousness
Pinkeye caused by virus or bacteria is very contagious. Children are highly susceptible because of their close interaction with other kids in school and other social places. Bacteria-related pinkeye is contagious as long as symptoms are present. Viral pinkeye is contagious before symptoms appear and therefore can be hard to prevent. Allergic pinkeye is not contagious.
Prevention
Bacterial and viral pinkeye are contagious. Therefore, your child should avoid anyone who already has the infection. You should also have them wash their hands regularly. In addition, they should avoid sharing personal items like towels, washcloths and clothes.
Treatment
Treatment for children with pinkeye varies depending on the cause, but most often they will be given eye drops. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotic drops, which are used several times a day. It is important your child uses the drops for the full duration of the prescription even if symptoms disappear beforehand. The bacteria may not be fully destroyed and can return. Allergic reactions are treated with allergy medication or allergic eye drops. Pinkeye caused by a virus cannot be treated; your child must wait for their bodies to fight the infection.
