Conjunctivitis In Children: What Should You Do?
Conjunctivitis in children and adults is a disease that involves inflammation of the conjunctival layer. This transparent mucous membrane covers the eye and, when inflamed, causes itching and redness. However, according to the US National Library of Medicine, conjunctivitis does not affect vision.
Contrary to popular belief, conjunctivitis can have many causes in addition to bacterial infections. Viruses, allergic reactions, trauma, contact lens wear and even insomnia can be factors that lead to conjunctivitis.
In the case of children, it is important to be very careful when they face the condition. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common childhood diseases.
However, don’t worry. We are here to tell you how to deal with conjunctivitis in children!
What is conjunctivitis in children?
As mentioned above, conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the ocular conjunctival layer. According to ophthalmology sources, it usually affects both eyes at the same time. But it can also affect one eye.
Scientific studies show that in children aged 1 to 9 years, conjunctivitis is the most common eye disease. Taking into account all pediatric visits for eye discomfort, almost 41% of cases correspond to conjunctivitis, and 30% are related to lesions.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in children?
Causes of conjunctivitis in children
A bacterial infection is by far the most common cause of conjunctivitis in children, occurring in up to 78% of cases. In adults, the statistics are different, as viruses cause 36% of cases and bacteria 40%.
The microorganisms that cause this pathology are the same that cause respiratory diseases or are found on the skin: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza and Moraxella catarrhalis.
It is never a good idea to make decisions instead of a doctor. For example, there is no point in treating a case of viral conjunctivitis with antibiotics. Moreover, they may worsen the child’s condition.
Therefore, if the little one has eye discomfort, a visit to the pediatrician is the logical and responsible step. Not all eye pain has to do with conjunctivitis, so the diagnosis must be made quickly and accurately.
