Red Eye in Children

- Op. Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek
- Last updated:
- 2 min read
- Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez
One of the eye problems that children and babies may encounter is the disease called red eye. In this article, we will give information about what red eye disease is, symptoms and treatment methods in children and babies.
What is Red Eye?
Red eye disease is characterised by redness, irritation or swelling of the sclera, the white part of the eye. This disease can have many different causes. However, the most common causes are usually dilation or inflammation of the blood vessels in the eye. When it is caused by bacteria or viruses, this disease can be contagious.
Symptoms of Red Eye Disease
Symptoms of red eye disease in children and infants can be listed as follows:
- Pinkness or redness of the eyes
- Burning sensation in the eyes
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Itching or irritation in the eyes
- Heavy discharge and crusting
If your child has any of these symptoms, it is very important to consult a specialist. Most cases of redness are mild and easy to treat; however, if a serious underlying cause is not treated in time, it can lead to permanent vision problems.
Treatment of Red Eye Disease
Treatment of red eye in children and infants varies depending on the factors that cause the disease to occur. Treatment alternatives to be followed can be listed as follows:
- Use of various prescription eye drops or creams to prevent eye infections and allergic reactions
- Applying a cold compress to relieve irritation in the eyes
- Antibiotic treatment in case of bacterial infection
Is a Red Eye Contagious?
It depends on the cause. Conjunctivitis caused by viruses and bacteria is contagious and can spread quickly in nurseries, kindergartens and schools. Redness caused by allergy or by dry eye is not contagious.
If a contagious cause is suspected, keep the child's towel and pillow separate, wash their hands often and remind them not to rub the eye. Your doctor will say when they can go back to school.
When Should You See a Doctor Without Waiting?
Most redness is mild, but some signs should not wait: swelling and bruising of the eyelids, severe pain in the eye, reduced vision, marked discomfort in light, and a heavy, dark discharge.
Redness and discharge appearing in a newborn is assessed separately, and in that period a doctor should be seen without delay.
What to Do at Home
When cleaning the eye, use a separate clean piece of cotton for each eye and wipe from the inner corner outwards. Try to stop the child rubbing the eye; rubbing both increases the irritation and spreads it to the other eye.
Do not use leftover drops from home or medicine prescribed for another child without asking your doctor. Drops containing steroids in particular should not be used in children without medical supervision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is red eye and is it common in children?
What are the common causes of red eye in children
What are the symptoms of red eye?
Is red eye contagious?
How is red eye treated when it is caused by allergies?
Does red eye in children require emergency intervention?
How to prevent red eye?
Patient Reviews
References
- 1.Conjunctivitis · NHS
- 2.Red eye · NHS
- 3.Conjunctivitis: What Is Pink Eye? · AAO