Help! My Child Has Pink Eye

It only takes one glimpse of their child’s red, watery eyes to alarm parents, and their worries only increase if their child’s eyes are swollen, itchy, or burning.

It’s comforting to know that pink eye heals with early treatment. But there are different types of pink eye, each with its own treatment needs, making it crucial to protect your child’s eyes by scheduling an evaluation at Eye Care & Surgery. 

Our caring team will answer your questions, ensure your child’s pink eye is properly diagnosed, and provide prompt care. Meanwhile, here’s what you need to know about pink eye.

What is pink eye?

Pink eye, the common name for conjunctivitis, occurs when the conjunctiva is inflamed and its blood vessels widen (dilate), creating the red appearance.

The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that lines the inner eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. Since the entire membrane is affected, your child’s eyes can take on an alarming pink or red appearance.

In addition to the red, inflamed membrane, the most common symptoms include:

• Painful eyes
• Burning or itchy eyes
• Watery eyes
• Eye discharge (watery or thick and clear, white, yellow, or green)
• Crusting along eyelashes that may make them stick together

Your child may also experience:

• Puffy or swollen eyelids
• Blurry or hazy vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Feeling that something is in their eye
• Lump in front of the ear

If your child wears contact lenses, their contacts will likely feel uncomfortable and may not stay in place.

Pink eye causes (types)

The different types of pink eye are based on the underlying cause. These are the primary types of pink eye:

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis, the most contagious and common type in children, is usually caused by the same virus that’s responsible for the common cold. Though uncommon, it may be due to the viruses that cause COVID-19, measles, herpes, or bird flu.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis also spreads easily from person to person and can arise from several common bacteria, including staphylococcus, which causes many different infections, and streptococcus, the bacteria best known for strep throat.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Unlike viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, allergic eye problems like conjunctivitis are not contagious. This type of pink eye is an allergic reaction to various allergens, such as pollen, mold, and pet dander.

Chemical conjunctivitis

Pink eye can develop due to irritants that aren’t allergens. Allergens trigger pink eye through an immune response, while irritants simply aggravate and inflame the conjunctiva.

Examples of irritants include air pollution, exposure to chemicals, and pool chlorine. Chlorine may cause a type of pink eye called swimmer’s eye.

Newborn conjunctivitis

Newborns can have pink eye if they’re exposed to bacteria in the birth canal or their environment after delivery. Some infants may also develop conjunctivitis in response to the eye drops they receive after delivery.

What should parents do?

Though pink eye typically improves on its own, the best step you can take is to schedule an eye exam. You need an accurate diagnosis so your child can receive the treatment tailored to their age, the type of pink eye, and your preferences.

When you meet with our team, we provide comprehensive care and support. For starters, we determine whether your child’s symptoms are from conjunctivitis or another condition.

Eye infections such as keratitis, blepharitis, and uveitis may have similar symptoms and can cause serious complications if they’re not treated.

We also provide vital tips for preventing the spread of a viral or bacterial infection and let you know if it’s safe for your child to go to school. Practicing self-care can stop an infection in one eye from spreading to the other and protect others in your household and your child’s school.

Treatments vary based on the type of pink eye. Your child may require soothing treatments such as compresses and artificial tears, or they may need antibiotic eye drops or allergy care.

Are you worried about pink eye?

The best way to ease your worry about your child’s pink eye is with caring treatment at Eye Care & Surgery. Schedule an appointment by calling our nearest office or booking online today. We have offices in the Fort Washington neighborhood of Manhattan, the Bronx, and New Rochelle, New York.