COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES AND CONDITIONS

CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

Symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness of sclera (white part of the eye) and inner eyelids and a watery discharge (not from crying). It is caused by a virus and commonly accompanies colds. When a bacterial infection occurs, the dis­charge becomes yellow and the eyelids are matted together after sleeping. This infection requires antibiotic eyedrops even if the eyes are not red.

Viral conjunctivitis usually lasts 4-7 days. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually clears up within 72 hours with proper treatment. In both cases, the condition is conta­gious and the child should use her own washcloth and towel.

HOME CARE:

• Keep the face and eyelids clean
• Irrigate with warm (not hot) water every 1-2 hours the child is awake
  
  
• CALL YOUR DOCTOR DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
• Your child is under 1 month old
• The eye has been red for more than 2 days
• A yellow discharge develops
• Your child's vision is blurred
• The eyelids become matted together with pus

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY IF:

• The eyelids are red or swollen
• The eyes are constantly tearing or blinking
• Your child complains of pain in the eyes
• Your child looks or acts very sick