Symptoms
Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as Pink Eye, is an infection of the clear membrane that covers the white of your baby’s eye. It is fairly common in infants and children and is not permanently harmful to his eyes. It is, however, extremely contagious and needs to be treated right away. Symptoms include:
- Eye pain
- Red eye(s) and eyelids
- Excess mucous or discharge in eyes
- Eye(s) stuck together upon waking from sleep
- Fluid draining from eye
Causes
Conjunctivitis is extremely contagious and can be spread through eye discharge, and even coughing or sneezing. Infectious Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria. In young infants, a blocked tear duct can cause the infection too.
Mistaken for
Allergies
Treatment
A doctor can diagnose Conjunctivitis, and will likely prescribe prescription eye drops or ointment. When treating Conjunctivitis,
- Be sure to keep your baby and your hands clean.
- Wash your baby’s bedding and clothes in hot water.
- Throw away anything that comes in contact with your child’s eyes, like gauze or cotton balls.
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