Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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DESCRIPTION

• redness of the sclera (white part of the eye)
• redness of the inner eyelids
• puffy eyelids due to irritation from the infection
• watery discharge from eye
• no yellow discharge from eye or matting of eyelids
• not caused by crying or allergy.

This condition is also called pink eye, bloodshot eyes, or conjunctivitis.

CAUSES

Red eyes are usually caused by a viral infection and they often occur when a child has a cold. If a bacterial infection occurs, discharge from the eyes becomes yellow and the eyelids are often matted together after sleeping. If this happens, your child needs antibiotic eyedrops even if the eyes are not red.

An irritant in the eye is the second most common cause of red eyes. The irritant can be shampoo, smog, smoke, or chlorine from a swimming pool. More often young children's eyes are irritated by touching the eyes with hands carrying dirt, food, soap, or animal saliva.

SIMILAR CONDITIONS

Chemical in Eye

Eye Allergies

Eye Infection with Pus

Foreign Body in Eye

EXPECTED COURSE

Viral conjunctivitis usually lasts as long as the cold (4 to 7 days). Red eyes from irritants usually are cured within 4 hours after the irritating substance is washed out.

HOME CARE

1. Washing with soap

   Wash the face and then wash the eyelids once with soap and water. Rinse them carefully with water. This will remove any irritants.

2. Irrigating with water

   For viral infections, rinse the eyes with warm water as often as possible, at least every 1 or 2 hours while your child is awake. Use a fresh, wet cotton ball each time. This rinsing usually will keep a bacterial infection from occurring.

   For mild chemical irritants, irrigate the eye with warm water for 5 minutes.

3. Vasoconstrictor eyedrops

   A viral infection is not helped by eyedrops.

   Red eyes from irritants usually feel much better after the irritant has been washed out. If the eyes remain uncomfortable and bloodshot, put in some long-acting vasoconstrictor eyedrops (a nonprescription item). Your child needs the eyedrops recommended by your physician.

4. Contagiousness

   Pink eye is harmless and mildly contagious. Children with viral conjunctivitis can attend day care or school.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:

• The eyelids become very red or swollen.
• Your child develops blurred vision or eye pain.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN WITHIN 24 HOURS IF:

• A yellow discharge develops.
• The redness lasts more than 7 days.
• You have other concerns or questions.