Conjunctivitis is a very Common Concern

Congenital conjunctivitis

This type of conjunctivitis is present at birth. It is caused by a lack of lymphatic flow in the newborn’s tissue, which includes all of the body’s organs and muscles. Congenital conjunctivitis is also called “sticky eye” due to the sticky substance that is present in the newborn’s eyelids and the corner of their eyes. Congenital sticky eye is seen more often in premature newborns. Their lids may be fused together in the newborn nursery and the lids will then be un-fused as the child grows. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious and should disappear as the child grows.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection that can be caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus. It can be caused by a single exposure to an infected person or a contaminated item like a toy. It is sometimes referred to as “pink eye” since the eye will appear red and watery. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with either eye drops or ointment. You can prevent pink eye by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, keeping your child home from school if they have a cold; washing linens regularly and thoroughly; avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands; and not sharing towels, utensils, handkerchiefs or personal items with another person who has a virus like the flu.

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is the most common cause of the redness, itching, and wateriness in the eyes. The most common viruses that cause this type of conjunctivitis are the rhinoviruses (common cold), adenoviruses, respiratory influenza viruses, enteroviruses and the coxsackie viruses. Viral conjunctivitis can also be caused by a bacterial infection. The best way to prevent getting it is by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly; keeping your child home from school if they have a cold; washing linens regularly and thoroughly; avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands; and not sharing towels, utensils, handkerchiefs or personal items with another person who has a virus like the flu.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis can be caused by an insect bite, pollen or some medications. Allergic conjunctivitis is a reaction of the immune system that produces symptoms like itchy, red, and watery eyes. The best way to prevent allergic conjunctivitis is by keeping your child away from the things that cause their allergies.

Tearing in children

Children may experience tearing of the eyes for many reasons. Some are due to a medical condition, others are caused by physical trauma to the eye area. There are many reasons for the tearing of the eyes in children. Some are due to a medical condition, others are caused by physical trauma to the eye area. Normal childhood tearing of the eyes can be caused by things such as eye infections, allergies, or even something as simple as a child rubbing their eyes while they are reading or watching TV.

Other conditions that cause red, puffy and itchy eyes in children

There are many conditions that can cause red, puffy and itchy eyes in children. Some of them include pink eye, styes, blepharitis, and dry eye. A stye is an inflamed lump on the edge of the eyelid caused by bacteria. It is usually red, painful, and can be treated with antibiotic eye drops. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid caused by bacteria, meibomian gland dysfunction, or a vitamin deficiency. It is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops, warm compresses, and a modification in eyelid cleaning habits. Dry eyes can be caused by allergies, meibomian gland dysfunction, or medications. Dry eye is treated with artificial tears, warm compresses, and changes in eyeglass prescriptions.

Conclusion

Conjunctivitis is the medical term for a red, puffy and itchy eye. It can be a sign of an infection or another condition. The best way to prevent getting it is by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly; keeping your child home from school if they have a cold; washing linens regularly and thoroughly; avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands; and not sharing towels, utensils, handkerchiefs or personal items with another person who has a virus like the flu. If your child has red, puffy, and itchy eyes, you should always consult with your doctor. They will be able to determine the cause, and if any treatment is necessary. It is important to keep your child's eyes clean and to help them avoid touching them with their hands.