Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Conjunctivitis, also known as "pinkeye", is common amongst babies and children. It is usually caused by a virus, bacteria, or allergens in the air. Although it is commonly regarded as a harmless infection, it is very contagious and quite unpleasant for the sufferer. Babies are especially bothered, as they do not understand that they shouldn't itch their eye.

Infectious conjunctivitis is caused by the same germs that give a person a cold or the flu. It is an inflammation of the conjuctiva, the surface tissue of the eye and inner eyelid. In appearance, it is clear why the infection is referred to as pinkeye- the afflicted eye will become very red and swollen. A person with pinkeye will experience mild to severe itching and discomfort.

Pinkeye is most common to young children because of the way it is spread. Playgrounds, schools, and daycares are, as many parents know, ground zero for germs and infections. Pinkeye is made worse by itching, as it can spread further and become more inflamed. For a child, it is very hard to resist itching the eye when it is bothering them. However, it should be noted that a person of any age can contract conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis can be treated easily by prescription eye drops or ointment. In some cases, a child may have itched the eye and then, in turn, spread it to the other eye. Symptoms of pinkeye should be brought to the pediatrician's attention right away in order to minimize discomfort. It is hard for a child to prevent pinkeye when they are around many other children, but make sure they practice good hygiene and wash their hands frequently.

Pinkeye, with treatment, will subside within a week. However, the eye(s) will feel better in a day or two once treatment begins. It is contagious before the symptoms even begin, which is another reason why it spreads so quickly. However, once your child is displaying symptoms, it is best to keep them at home for the first day or two of treatment. Pinkeye occurs commonly in children, but it rarely leads to anything serious.