Pinkeye is a common disease in children. Depending on whether it is viral, bacterial, neonatal, allergic or irritant pinkeye, there are precautions you need to take to protect your child's eyesight.
What is Pinkeye?
Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis occurs when the clear membrane that covers the white of the eye, known as the conjunctive, and the inner eyelids become inflamed. This is a common condition and it’s not something that is likely to affect your child’s vision if it’s cared for properly. Pinkeye can be caused by allergies, bacterial infection and irritants.
Infectious Pinkeye
Infectious pinkeye is caused by either bacteria or a virus. There are a wide range of bacteria that can cause pinkeye, including streptococcus and haemophilus. Organisms that cause STDs (sexually transmitted disease) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pinkeye in those who are sexually active and in infants who get the infection from their mothers during delivery.
Viral Pinkeye
Viral pinkeye often accompanies viral infections such as colds, the flu and some common childhood diseases. Herpes simplex, a less common cause of viral pinkeye is a more serious condition that should be cared for by an eye specialist.
Allergic Pinkeye
This type of pinkeye is very common in children who suffer from allergies, such as hay fever. It appears at certain times of the year when allergens such as grass, ragweed and pollen are heavy in the air. Pet dander, dust and dust mites can also cause allergic pinkeye to flare up. Allergic pinkeye starts in both eyes concurrently, while other types of pinkeye begin in one eye only.
Irritant Pinkeye
Irritant pinkeye can be caused by air pollutants, chemicals, chlorine, soap, smoke and anything else that irritates the eyes.
Pinkeye in Infants
When infants younger than a month old get pinkeye, it is known as neonatal conjunctivitis. It may be caused by a tear duct that is blocked. Treatment for this condition consists of gently massaging between the baby’s eye and the nasal area. The eye drops given to infants immediately after delivery can cause a mild form of irritant pinkeye, which will disappear without treatment within two or three days.
Infants are susceptible to infectious pinkeye, which is a more serious condition, after delivery. This is caused by sexually transmitted bacteria that pass to the baby’s eyes from the birth canal during delivery. The baby will get the symptoms within two weeks of birth and this type of pinkeye can cause serious damage. Other viruses that damage the eyes of newborns include those caused by genital or oral herpes. These are also passed to the baby at birth.