# Red Eye in Children

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/red-eye-in-children

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez | **Date:** 2026-09-06

> **Summary:** Red eye in children and babies is redness, irritation or swelling of the white of the eye (sclera), most often caused by conjunctivitis, allergy or irritation. Whether it is contagious, and how it is treated, depends on the cause.

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## What Is Red Eye?
Redness of the sclera, usually from dilation or inflammation of the eye's blood vessels. Common causes are conjunctivitis, allergies, foreign bodies, dry eye, eye injuries and infections. Most cases are mild and easy to treat, but a serious underlying cause not treated in time can lead to permanent vision problems.

## Symptoms
- Pinkness or redness
- Burning or stinging
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Itching or irritation
- Heavy discharge and crusting
- Swelling of the eyelids

## Is It Contagious?
It depends on the cause. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious and spread quickly in nurseries, kindergartens and schools. Redness from allergy or dry eye is not contagious. If a contagious cause is suspected, keep the child's towel and pillow separate, wash hands often and discourage eye rubbing; the doctor decides when the child can return to school.

## Treatment
- Prescription eye drops or creams for infections and allergic reactions.
- Cold compresses to relieve irritation.
- Antibiotics for bacterial infection.
- For allergy: identifying and removing the allergen, with antihistamine drops or medication if recommended.

## When to See a Doctor Without Waiting
- Swelling and bruising of the eyelids.
- Severe eye pain.
- Reduced vision.
- Marked discomfort in light or a foreign body sensation.
- Heavy, dark discharge.
- Any redness and discharge in a newborn.

## What to Do at Home
- Clean each eye with a separate clean piece of cotton, wiping from the inner corner outwards.
- Stop the child rubbing the eye, which worsens irritation and spreads it to the other eye.
- Do not use leftover drops or another child's medicine without asking the doctor; steroid drops in particular must not be used in children without medical supervision.

## Prevention
Good hygiene (frequent hand washing, not touching the eyes), regular eye examinations and protection from allergens.