Conjunctivitis
Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic
Edward H. Titmus, Jr. Center for Sight | 11618 Busy Street | Richmond, VA 23236
(804) 423-2020 | toll-free (888) 790-2020 | fax (804) 423-5409
www.TheEyeSite.org
Washington Area Office | 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 700 | Alexandria, VA 22314
Star Pupils is the children's vision campaign of
(Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid.
It is the most common eye infection in the United States. Cases may vary from a mild redness with watery eyes to serious infections where vision is impaired or even lost.
What causes conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis happens when the conjunctiva becomes infected, usually by a virus or bacteria. It also can be caused by allergic reactions or chemical irritations.
What are some warning signs or symptoms?
Signs of conjunctivitis are red and irritated eyes. If your child has conjunctivitis, he or she may wake up with eyelashes stuck together from dried mucus formed during the night. The condition often affects both eyes and causes a gritty feeling.
Although vision is usually not affected, your child's eyes may be very sensitive to light. There is a stickiness of the eyelids. In severe cases the eyelids are swollen. Itching is another common symptom.
Conjunctivitis can be confused with a more serious eye disease known as iritis. That's why it is important to have your eye problem diagnosed and treated by a qualified eye care professional.
How is conjunctivitis treated?
It is best to have an examination by your eye care professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Cleaning the crusting on the eyelids every few hours with a cotton swab soaked in lukewarm water usually helps the eye feel better. Antibiotic eye drops, ointments or other medications may also be prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis.
Tinted glasses may relieve discomfort from bright light. They can also provide a cosmetic shield for the reddened and swollen eyes. The eye should not be covered by a patch, however, as this can make the infection worse.
Help minimize the spread of conjunctivitis
Keep your child home from school or daycare while he or she is contagious with pink eye. Your eye doctor can tell you when your child is no longer contagious. You should also notify your child's teacher or daycare providers if your child has been diagnosed with pink eye. Ask your eye doctor about how to minimize the risk of spreading the disease among family members at home.
