From the Guidelines
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) in children typically presents as redness in the whites of the eyes, accompanied by tearing, discharge, and mild discomfort, and the most recent guidelines recommend treating bacterial conjunctivitis with antibiotic eye drops like Polymyxin B-trimethoprim or erythromycin, as stated in the 2024 conjunctivitis preferred practice pattern 1.
Key Symptoms and Signs
- Redness in the whites of the eyes
- Tearing
- Discharge, which may be yellow or green and cause the eyelids to stick together
- Mild discomfort
- Itchiness
- Gritty feeling
- Mild pain
- Sensitivity to light
Treatment and Management
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: antibiotic eye drops like Polymyxin B-trimethoprim or erythromycin, typically used 4 times daily for 5-7 days
- Viral pink eye: treatment focuses on symptom relief as it usually resolves on its own within 7-10 days
- Clean the affected eye gently with warm water and a clean cloth, wiping from the inner corner outward
- Apply cool compresses to reduce discomfort
Prevention and Control
- Keep your child home from school until discharge clears or for 24 hours after starting antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Prevent spread by encouraging frequent handwashing, using separate towels, and avoiding touching the eyes
- Contact a doctor if symptoms worsen, vision changes occur, or if the child develops severe pain, as these may indicate a more serious condition, such as gonococcal conjunctivitis, which can lead to corneal infection, corneal scarring, and corneal perforation 1.
From the Research
Pink Eye Symptoms in Children
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common condition in children. The symptoms of pink eye can vary depending on the cause, but common symptoms include:
- Redness and inflammation of the eye
- Discharge or pus in the eye
- Itching or burning sensation in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
Causes of Pink Eye in Children
Pink eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu 2
- Bacterial infections, such as Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae 3
- Allergies or irritants, such as pollen or dust
Treatment of Pink Eye in Children
The treatment of pink eye in children depends on the cause of the condition. For viral conjunctivitis, treatment is typically focused on relieving symptoms, such as using warm compresses or artificial tears 2. For bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear up the infection 4, 3, 5, 6. However, antibiotics are not always necessary, and in some cases, the condition may resolve on its own without treatment 4, 6.
Management of Pink Eye in Children
It is essential to educate parents and children on the self-limiting nature of pink eye and the importance of proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the condition 4. In addition, parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms of pink eye and seek medical attention if the condition worsens or does not improve with treatment. Regular handwashing and avoiding sharing of personal items can also help prevent the spread of pink eye 3.