A Guide to Conjuctivitis

(eye infections or “Pink Eye”)

Conjuctivitis or “pink eye” is an eye infection that occurs mostly in infants and toddlers that have a head cold or Sinus Infection. When bacteria from the nose wash up the tear duct, the eye becomes irritated and red and a local eye infection starts. This secondary bacterial infection needs to be treated with an antibiotic. Most cases of conjuctivitis are easily spread to others at School, Day Care, or home.

Symptoms:

Usually there is a nasal infection like a “Cold” or “Sinus Infection” but occasionally Allergies can start the process. Congestion in the nose causes bacteria to be pushed up the tear duct to the eye. Irritation, redness, swelling of the eye lids result. While some infections are viral, (ie. a “cold” in the eye), usually nose and skin bacteria are the cause of the infection.

Treatment of Eye Infections:

Usually antibiotics are needed to treat the eye infection. Eye Drops are used if there is not a Sinus Infection (or other broad bacterial infection). If there is a need for Systemic Antibiotics, one is selected that is secreted in tears to treat the bacterial contamination in the eyes. Either way, antibiotics bathe the eye and control the infection. Once antibiotics are started, the conjuctivitis is no longer contagious and the child can safely be around others. Eye drops should be continued until the irritation is gone and can be stopped at that time, usually in a couple of days. Call the office if the infection is lasting longer than expected.

If you have any questions about conjuctivitis or "pink eye", you can contact us at:

Info@Laramiekids.com

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A Guide to Conjuctivitis

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