Pinkeye in Toddlers

Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, occurs when one or both eyes becomes inflamed as the result of a bacterial or viral infection. Pink eye typically clears up within a week without any lasting effects.

Effects

• Pink eye causes symptoms such as tearing, eye discharge, redness and itchiness.

Time Frame

• Toddlers with pink eye continue to be contagious about seven to 14 days after symptoms emerge. However, toddlers may attend daycare 24 hours after a doctor initiates treatment.

Treatment

• Physicians treat bacterial pinkeye, the most common form in toddlers, with antibiotic eye drops. Also, caregivers can apply warm compresses to the affected eye(s) to relieve discomfort.

Considerations

• According to pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears, caregivers should consult a physician at the onset of symptoms and again if the symptoms continue for more than five days after beginning treatment.

Prevention

• Caregivers can prevent spread of the infection to themselves by washing their hands often and by avoiding touching their eyes with their hands.