Quick Action Guide
📞 CALL DOCTOR IF:
- • No improvement in 2-3 days if treated, or a week if untreated
- • Eye redness gets worse
- • Increasing swelling of eyelids
- • Severe eye pain
- • Any change in vision
- • Baby has pinkeye (newborn under 1 month)
- • Ear pain (may indicate infection)
💡 HOME CARE:
- • Clean eye area gently with warm water
- • Apply cool compresses to eyes
- • Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort
- • Use antibiotic eye drops if prescribed
- • Wash hands frequently
⚠️ PREVENT SPREAD:
- • Don't share towels, washcloths, or pillowcases
- • Wash hands often with soap and water
- • Use separate face cloth for each eye
- • Clean items that touched the eyes
Understanding Pinkeye
Pinkeye (or conjunctivitis) is inflammation of the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It can be caused by allergies, irritating substances, or infection from a virus or bacteria. Some kinds of pinkeye go away on their own, but others need treatment with antibiotics. Pinkeye that's caused by an infection can spread easily from person to person.
Types of Pinkeye
Viral Pinkeye
Usually clears up on its own within 1-2 weeks. Very contagious, often accompanies cold symptoms. Tends to start in one eye and spread to the other.
Bacterial Pinkeye
Requires antibiotic eye drops or ointment. May produce yellow or green discharge. Highly contagious and can affect one or both eyes.
Allergic Pinkeye
Caused by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Usually affects both eyes and causes itching and tearing. Not contagious.
Irritant Pinkeye
Caused by exposure to smoke, chlorine, or other irritating substances. Resolves when the irritant is removed.
Signs & Symptoms of Pinkeye
Physical Symptoms
- • Redness of the eye and inner eyelid
- • Watery or pus-like liquid seeping from the eye
- • Lashes matted or stuck together upon waking up
- • Swollen or puffy eyelids
Sensations and Discomfort
- • Discomfort or feeling like something is in the eye
- • Itchiness and tearing (common with allergic pinkeye)
- • Gritty or sandy feeling in the eye
- • Light sensitivity
Additional Signs
- • Crusting around the eyes, especially after sleeping
- • Yellow or green discharge (often indicates bacterial infection)
- • Eye irritation or burning sensation
What Should I Do if My Child Gets Pinkeye?
1. Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor, especially if your child is a newborn. If it looks like a bacterial infection, treatment may include antibiotic drops or ointment. Don't try to diagnose pinkeye yourself—let the doctor determine the type and appropriate treatment.
2. Clean the Eye Area
Carefully clean the eye area with warm water and gauze or cotton balls:
- • Use a clean, wet cloth to gently wipe away crust or discharge
- • Clean from the inner corner to the outer corner of the eye
- • Use a different cloth or cotton ball for each eye
- • Wash hands before and after cleaning the eyes
3. Apply Cool Compresses
Gently put cool compresses on the eye to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in cool water. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes at a time, repeating as needed.
4. Relieve Discomfort
If your doctor suggests it, give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort (check the label for how much to give and how often). Don't give ibuprofen to an infant younger than 6 months old.
When Should I Call the Doctor About Pinkeye?
Call the doctor if your child has:
- • Shows no improvement in 2-3 days if treated, or a week if untreated
- • Has eye redness that gets worse
- • Has increasing swelling of the eyelids
- • Complains of severe pain
- • Has any change in vision
- • Also has ear pain (pinkeye and ear infections can happen at the same time)
- • Is a newborn or infant under 3 months old
What Can Help Prevent Pinkeye?
Good Hygiene
Teach kids to wash their hands well and often with soap and water. This is especially important after touching the face or eyes. Don't share eye ointment, washcloths, towels, and pillowcases.
Managing Allergies
Talk to your doctor if itchy, watery, or red eyes are a frequent problem—allergies might be the cause. Allergy testing and treatment can help prevent recurring allergic pinkeye.
Reducing Eye Irritants
If some household things seem to irritate the eyes:
- • Dust and vacuum often to reduce allergens
- • Close windows and doors when pollen is heavy
- • Keep scented or irritating chemicals (like household cleaners) to a minimum
- • Avoid secondhand smoke
Additional Prevention Tips
- • Wash pillowcases and bedding regularly in hot water
- • Don't rub or touch the eyes with unwashed hands
- • If your child has pinkeye, keep them home from school/daycare until cleared by a doctor
- • Clean eyeglasses regularly
- • Keep fingernails short and clean to reduce the chance of introducing bacteria to the eye
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is pinkeye contagious?
A: Bacterial pinkeye is contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics or until symptoms clear. Viral pinkeye is contagious as long as symptoms last. Children should stay home from school/daycare until cleared by a healthcare provider.
Q: Can my child go to school with pinkeye?
A: Most schools require children with pinkeye to stay home until they've been on antibiotics for 24 hours (if bacterial) or until cleared by a doctor. Check with your child's school for their specific policy.
Q: Do I need antibiotic eye drops for pinkeye?
A: Only bacterial pinkeye requires antibiotics. Viral pinkeye will clear on its own. Your doctor can determine if antibiotics are needed based on the symptoms and type of discharge.
Q: Can pinkeye cause permanent vision loss?
A: Most cases of pinkeye don't cause permanent vision loss. However, serious untreated bacterial infections or complications can potentially affect vision. Prompt treatment is important.
Q: Can pinkeye be prevented?
A: Good handwashing, not sharing personal items, and avoiding eye rubbing can help prevent pinkeye. Reducing allergens and irritants in the home can also help prevent allergic and irritant pinkeye.
Q: Should I use breast milk or other home remedies for pinkeye?
A: It's best to consult your doctor for proper treatment. While breast milk has antibodies, it's not a substitute for medical treatment. Avoid using herbal remedies or over-the-counter eye drops without medical advice.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information about handling pinkeye and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Pinkeye can be contagious and needs proper diagnosis to determine if antibiotics are needed. Always consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially for newborns. Prompt treatment can prevent complications and reduce the spread of infection.