December 30, 2021 Author : Sónia Marques Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva . The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. Therefore, when inflamed, the eye turns red. In children, conjunctivitis can have several causes , including: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, in these cases it is an infectious conjunctivitis; Allergic reaction , for example to pollen, mites, or animal hair; Aggression by chemical compounds, for example chlorine used in the treatment of swimming pools; Injuries . In children, most conjunctivitis has an infectious cause . The typical sign of infectious conjunctivitis is redness in the white of the eye; It is usually accompanied by increased tearing ; A yellowish eye discharge may also be present, and sometimes children even wake up with 'eyes glued together'. Conjunctivitis is very itchy , and older children sometimes report burning or feeling something is in their eye. Vision is not altered, although mucus can cause blurred vision. Pain is rare. Infectious conjunctivitis is contagious. The time between infection and onset of symptoms is variable, usually between 2-7 days. To prevent infection and transmission , children should be taught to wash their hands frequently with soap and water and to avoid scratching their eyes. If a child in the family has infectious conjunctivitis, their towels should be kept separate from the rest of the family and changed daily until the eye discharge stops. The treatment of simple conjunctivitis is topical , with the application of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory or anti-allergy compounds , depending on the cause, in the form of drops and/or ointment. To apply the drops or ointment: First clean the eyelids of mucus or pus with a saline-soaked swab, from the cleanest area of the eye to the dirtiest area. Then carefully pull the lower eyelid down and place a drop (or some ointment) in the space between the eyelid and the eye , always avoiding touching the eye with the dropper or tube. Meet the pediatric clinical team from Hospital da Luz network and book your consultation. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
