Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is fairly common in children. You should see your doctor to determine the cause of your child's pinkeye and how to treat it. Pinkeye may be uncomfortable but usually causes no long-term eye or vision damage.
Definition
Pinkeye is an inflammation of the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. The inflammation causes blood vessels to become prominent, causing the pink or red to appear on the white of the eyes.
Causes
Bacteria and viruses responsible for the common cold and other infections are one cause of pinkeye. A child can get pinkeye by touching an infected person with pinkeye or by touching something an infected person has touched. It can also spread through coughing and sneezing. Another cause of pinkeye is allergies. Children with allergies tend to have pinkeye more often than other children. Pinkeye may also be the result of chemicals and air pollutants in the environment.
Symptoms
Redness of the eye and inner eyelid accompanied with a feeling of sand in the eye may be a symptom of pinkeye. Pinkeye also causes discharge from the eye causing the eyelids to stick together when your child wakes up in the morning. Swollen eyelids or sensitivity to bright light may also be a sign of pinkeye.
Treatment
Pinkeye caused by a virus will usually go away without any treatment. If your child's pinkeye is due to a bacterial infection your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic eye drop or ointment. Anti-allergy medication may be prescribed if your child's pinkeye is due to allergies. Warm or cold compresses and ibuprofen may help with your child's discomfort. According to KidsHealth website, children with pinkeye are recommended to stay home from school for a short time.
Prevention
To prevent your child from getting pinkeye,, he should wash his hand regularly with warm water and soap. It is also important to teach your child to avoid sharing eye drops, tissues, towels, washcloths and pillowcases with other children. If your child does have pinkeye you should wash your hands thoroughly after touching your child's eye and be sure to throw away gauze or cotton balls after they have been used to prevent spreading pinkeye to yourself or other family members.
