Eye problems are very common among children. They vary from irritation, allergies and infections to changes in regular vision. In this article, you can learn about some common eye infections and how to get rid of them.
Conjunctivitis:
Viral Conjunctivitis:
- It is also commonly known as pinkeye. It is an infection which is caused due to bacteria or virus that causes redness in either one or both of the eyes and also causes a watery discharge.
- Conjunctivitis, which is caused due to virus, can produce red eye and the discharge is generally just cloudy or watery. This may also be accompanied by an infection in the upper respiratory tract.
- Special drops for pink eye can remove the inflammation. Children must see a doctor for the treatment.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis:
- Now, Conjunctivitis which is caused due to bacteria also results in a red eye but also causes matting of eyes along with a yellow or green discharge. By using a good treatment, this yellow discharge can clear up in 72 hours. But, the redness could continue for a few days.
- You should clean the eyes before applying any medicine. You can remove the pus with wet cotton balls and warm water. If this is not done, then the applied medicine cannot work properly.
- An antibiotic medicine can be used to treat the infection. The pus from infected eyes can lead to eye infections in other family members. Hence, it is important for the child to have his/her own towel and washcloth. And, encourage the child to not to rub or touch the infected eyes, as this can increase the existence of infection for a longer time.
What steps can be taken to prevent common eye infections like conjunctivitis?
Maintaining a good hygiene of face and hands is very improtant for the child. And, washing the eye with some lukewarm salt water can reduce the symptoms.
