What to Know About Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye) in Newborns
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, often known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white portion of the eye. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.
Is conjunctivitis common in newborns?
Yes, conjunctivitis is relatively common in newborns. It affects up to 2% of babies born in the United States.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in newborns?
The symptoms of conjunctivitis in newborns can include:
* Redness of the eye
* Swelling of the eyelid
* Discharge from the eye (which may be clear, yellow, or green)
* Crusting of the eyelashes
* Sensitivity to light
* Watery eyes
What causes conjunctivitis in newborns?
The most common cause of conjunctivitis in newborns is a bacterial infection. The bacteria that cause conjunctivitis can be spread from the mother to the baby during childbirth. Other risk factors for conjunctivitis in newborns include:
* Premature birth
* Low birth weight
* Use of forceps or vacuum during delivery
* Having a sibling with conjunctivitis
How is conjunctivitis treated in newborns?
Treatment for conjunctivitis in newborns depends on the cause of the infection.
* Bacterial conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
* Viral conjunctivitis: There is no specific treatment for viral conjunctivitis. The infection usually resolves on its own within a few days or weeks.
* Allergic conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamines or steroid eye drops.
How can conjunctivitis be prevented in newborns?
There is no sure way to prevent conjunctivitis in newborns, but there are some things that you can do to reduce the risk:
* Wash your hands frequently before touching your baby's eyes.
* Avoid contact with people who have conjunctivitis.
* If you have conjunctivitis, do not touch your baby's eyes.
When should I seek medical attention for conjunctivitis in my newborn?
You should seek medical attention for your newborn if he or she has any of the following symptoms:
* Severe redness or swelling of the eye
* Discharge from the eye that is thick or yellow/green
* Crusting of the eyelashes
* Sensitivity to light
* Watery eyes
* Fever