Pink eye is usually triggered by bacteria. Aside from bacteria, it can also be caused by viral infections, irritation and even allergies.
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Remember that unless triggered by irritation or allergy, most of the causes of pink eye are contagious.
What are the signs?
If caused by bacteria, children with pink eye has yellowish or greenish drainage from the eyes while the white part of the eye and interior of the lower eyelid turns red. Aside from the crusting that forms upon waking up, the drainage must be wiped away frequently from the affected eye.
If an allergy is the cause, the eyes turns red along with itchiness and tearing.
For a viral case, the eyes become intensely reddened along with tearing and white drainage.
Management of pink eye
- In case bacteria is the cause, antibiotics are required as part of treatment either as topical drops or ointments. In some cases, an oral antibiotic is given if the child has another bacterial infection.
- The allergic form is usually managed with allergy drugs and topical medications.
- The viral forms of pink eye do not necessitate treatment. The condition can last for several weeks, moving from one eye to the other, but the symptoms are generally mild. If virus is the cause, it also causes eye pain and photophobia.
Depending on the root cause, any eye drainage must be wiped away using a cool damp cloth and thoroughly wash hands after. Over-the-counter drops can be used to lessen the redness and irritation among older children.
If contact lenses are used, the child should stop using them while the condition is still present.
Even though pink eye might be easily transmitted, it is not a reason to keep a child out of school unless he/she has fever or behavioral changes.
In case the child with the infection does not respond to the commonly used treatment options or complains of eye pain or visual issues, further assessment is required.