Inflammation of the conjunctiva may be caused by an infection, allergen and some other irritant. Pinkeye often becomes alarming because it damages the eye and can spread to the other when it is not treated.
When Pinkeye is caused by bacteria, viruses and other microbes, it can spread easily from one individual to another. This may however not pose any serious health risk.
New born babies may also fall victims of the Pinkeye infection. Parents must watch very closely at all times and report any strange activities.
In the pink eye disease, the conjunctiva becomes damaged or ruptured. Conjunctiva is a thin tissue which covers the white part of the eye. When the conjunctiva is inflamed, it affects other functions of the eye. Conjunctiva is the sight of blood vessels and nerves which overlay the sclerotic layer. Inflammation causes these vessels to dilate thereby causing a reddish appearance of the eye.
Pink eye which is caused by viruses are often very contagious and may be difficult to treat especially when it is not reported at the earlier stages.
What causes Pinkeye in Kids?
Pink eye in children is caused by different factors. Some of these factors are natural while a few others are environmental.
Viral Conjunctivitis: this refers to pink eye that is caused by pin eye. In a number of cases, it comes with symptoms such as those seen in normal cold. Viruses are reported to be the most common cause of the pink eye infection.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Bacteria are also known to cause conjunctivitis. In this regard, there is presence of thick yellow discharge that causes the eyelids to swell and stick together. Bacteria strains including staphylococcus, streptococcus, or hemophilus have been implicated.
Pink Eye Disease caused by an Allergen: In this case, the child’s eyes appear itchy and swollen. A watery and bloodshot eye coupled with a running nose is also observed. This occurs in response to allergies such as dust, pollen, smoke or chemicals in food.
Apart from all the factors listed above, other irritants which affect the eye and its eyelid can trigger conjunctivitis.
Signs of Pink Eye in Children
The early signs of pink eye include the following:
- A redness appearance in the white of the eye or inner eyelid
- Increment in the amount of tears produced
- There is often a thick yellow discharge which spreads over the eyelashes.
- A green or white discharge from the eye.
Other early signs seen in children with pink eye disease include itchy eyes, burning eyes, blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light.
Treatment of Pink Eye in Children
When the pink eye is caused by virus, it usually persists for a few days before its symptoms disappear. But notwithstanding, home remedies may be applied. This involves using cloth immersed in cold water to clean the eyes several times. This should be enough to clear all symptoms.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated by simple antibiotics. Your doctor will determine the type of antibiotic suitable for your child after proper diagnosis. This may be an eyedrop or ointment.
Pink eye that is caused by allergic reactions are treated with medications that inhibit the allergies. Your physician will ask a few questions about previous reactions before prescribing any particular type of medication.
Appropriate eye drops are administered for usage over a period of five to seven days until all symptoms disappear. For symptoms to disappear upon completion of treatment, you must adhere to all instructions and complete the prescription to prevent resistance.