Pink eye, which is medically referred to as conjunctivitis, is a condition that is characterized by the inflammation of the conjunctiva. This write-up provides information on the symptoms of conjunctivitis in children.
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an eye condition wherein the eyes becomes red due to inflammation of the conjunctiva (thin membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelid and the white part of the eyeball). This condition usually occurs due to a viral infection. It’s quite common in children, as it spreads due to person-to-person contact.
Causes
Conjunctivitis is categorized into 3 types: viral conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. The exposure to viruses, bacteria, parasites, allergens, or environmental pollutants could cause the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Since this condition is contagious, the affected child is advised to get complete bed rest and avoid the company of other children.
The most widespread cause is the direct contact with another person who is affected by the infection. This infection can spread very easily from one person to another, so suitable precautions must be taken. There are some symptoms that you need to be on the lookout for. If any of these symptoms are clearly noticeable, immediate medical advice must be sought, and corrective measures must be immediately undertaken. The infection can spread if medical assistance is not sought on time. It is absolutely crucial to avoid direct contact with other people, especially other children, in order to stop the eye problem from spreading.
The most obvious symptoms of pink eye include itchiness, redness, and swelling of the eye. These are unmistakable signs that suggest that a person has contracted this infection, and suitable action must immediately be taken. In case of viral conjunctivitis, there will be a light discharge from the eye, and the individual will also experience excessive watering in the eye. Another clear symptom is the formation of crusts on the eyelid.
As far as bacterial conjunctivitis is concerned, the infection will almost always spread to both eyes. The level of discharge will be heavy, and it will always appear greenish. Crusting of the eyelid will also be present. Allergic conjunctivitis is also accompanied by a runny and itchy nose. There will also be slight tearing in the eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis also affects both the eyes of an individual.
Tips to Avoid Conjunctivitis
Keeping the following tips in mind will help a child avoid the condition altogether:
- Wash hands regularly.
- Use personal hand towels to wipe face and eyes.
- Do not share eye drops.
- Do not share cosmetic products that have to be applied to the eyes.
- Avoid excessive rubbing of the eyes.
- Dust the home regularly.
- Wear protective glasses when venturing outside or swimming.
- Wear and remove contact lenses in the proper manner.
- Avoid touching an infected individual’s eyes or hands.
- Keep all doors and windows closed when inside.
There’s no denying the fact that prevention is better than cure. So, follow these simple precautionary measures so that this infection can be avoided completely.