An eye infection such as pink eye can occur in a person of any age, and will often resolve without any treatment. But pink eye in an infant can lead to complications such as vision changes, so you need to take immediate action at the first sign of the infection. The infection may stem from a number of causes such as bacteria or a virus, but an allergic reaction may also cause pink eye. Knowing what to do when your child has signs will help you prevent permanent damage to your baby's eyes.
Step 1
Contact the pediatrician. Unless you know the cause, you cannot treat pink eye properly. Each form, whether viral, bacterial or any other, requires a specific treatment, and in most cases, a prescription eye drop will be appropriate. A newborn who passed through the birth canal may have acquired an infection from the mother, and certain infections may require prescription medications. For severe infections, the pediatrician may recommend hospitalization to use intravenous medications to resolve the source.
Step 2
Massage the tear duct area if the infection stems from a blockage. If the pediatrician identifies the blockage, she will show you how to precisely massage the area around the blocked portion of the duct, a process also called "milking," which may help loosen matter preventing proper tear drainage. Pink eye may stem from a blocked duct located in the corner of the eye nearest the nose. Tears that cannot drain fill the blocked duct and provide a place for bacteria and viruses to grow, causing the infection. Your child may still require medicated eye drops to clear the infection, but clearing the duct may help prevent further episodes.
Step 3
Hold a cool, damp cloth gently against the eyelids. This may help if you notice swelling on the eyelids or think your baby's eyes may be uncomfortable. Keeping your infant's eyes clear of matter may help while the infection resolves. A warm cloth may help loosen matter that can cause the eyelashes and eyelids to stick together.
