Conjunctivitis
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There are three main causes of conjunctivitis which are commonly found in children, conjunctivitis or pink eye as it is more commonly known is defined as irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the covering which lines the inside of the eyelids and whites of the eyes.
The three most commonly known causes of the disease are infectious conjunctivitis which is the most common cause in children and is caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Allergic conjunctivitis is due to airborne pollen or dust. Household irritants such as cleaners, deodorants or perfumes can be the cause of chemical conjunctivitis.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
The symptoms which are most usually present in conjunctivitis are red or pinkish colour to the white of the eye, itchiness or irritation which is often described as a gritty feeling, very watery eyes and a thick sticky yellowish discharge from the corner of the eye.
Is conjunctivitis contagious?
As bacteria and viruses are the main cause of conjunctivitis in children the disease is very infectious, the germs and viruses can pass from person to person through contact such as the discharge from the eye.
As children with the disease will very often rub their eyes, it is extremely important that they wash their hands frequently to avoid spreading the disease. It is also important that face cloths and towels aren’t shared and that adults who take care of the child’s eye wash their hands frequently.
What is the treatment for conjunctivitis?
Bacterial conjunctivitis will be treated with the use of antibiotics, which are given by eye drops or ointment, depending on the type of bacteria oral antibiotic may also be needed. Soaking the eyes with clean cotton wool balls soaked in warm water may also help to soothe the eyes and reduce the itchiness. This form of conjunctivitis is very contagious and your child will need to stay home from school.
Viral conjunctivitis doesn’t usually respond to antibiotics and will clear up usually of its accord within a few days, warm compresses to the eyes can also help and viral conjunctivitis is also very contagious so your child will have to stay home from school.
Allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious and is normally treated with antihistamines with inflammation and soreness being greatly helped by bathing the eyes with warm water.
You should consult your Doctor if your child has any of the following symptoms
* Eyes that are unusually red, itchy or watering
* If the eyes are very puffy or swollen
* There is a thick yellowish discharge coming from them
* Your child has problems with vision
* The are under the eyelids are swollen or puffy.
