Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It is extremely common in children, and it spreads through nurseries and classrooms with impressive efficiency. Most cases are viral and clear on their own.
The four kinds, and why it matters
- Viral — the most common. Watery discharge, often alongside a cold or sore throat. Usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other. Antibiotic drops do nothing for it.
- Bacterial — thicker yellow or green discharge, and the classic sign of eyelids stuck together in the morning. May respond to antibiotic drops.
- Allergic — both eyes, itchy rather than gritty, often with sneezing or a runny nose, and seasonal. Not contagious at all.
- Irritant — from chlorine, smoke or something rubbed into the eye. Settles once the cause is removed.
Telling them apart is why it is worth being seen rather than reaching for leftover drops. Itching points to allergy; a cold points to a virus; lids glued shut point to bacteria.
Does my child need antibiotic drops?
Often not. Most conjunctivitis in children is viral or mild and resolves in a week or two without treatment. Where drops are prescribed it is usually to shorten the contagious period or because the picture is clearly bacterial. Never use drops left over from a previous illness, or someone else’s — some eye preparations contain steroids, which can cause real harm in the wrong eye condition.
Comfort and stopping it spreading
- Wipe discharge gently from the inner corner outward with a clean, damp cloth — a fresh one for each eye
- Cool compresses for viral and allergic pink eye; warm ones help when lids are crusted
- Handwashing, and no sharing of towels, flannels or pillows
- No contact lenses until the eye is completely better, and replace the lens case
- Change pillowcases daily while symptoms last
School and nursery
Policies differ, and many now allow children back once they are well enough even with mild residual redness. Some still ask for 24 hours of treatment first. Check with your school or nursery — and we are happy to provide a note.
When to call us, and when it is urgent
Call us the same day for a newborn or young infant with a red, discharging eye — conjunctivitis in the first weeks of life is treated differently and needs prompt assessment.
Also call for:
- Eye pain, or any change in vision
- Marked sensitivity to light
- Symptoms not improving after about a week, or worsening at any point
- A child who wears contact lenses and develops a red, painful eye
Go to the emergency room if the eyelid or the skin around the eye becomes red, swollen and tender, if the eye is bulging, or if your child cannot move the eye normally — those are signs of an infection spreading into the tissue around the eye, which needs urgent treatment.
Pink eye appointments in MetroWest, Orlando
We offer same-day sick visits for eye symptoms. Call (407) 445-9224. Primary Care Pediatrics, 1507 S Hiawassee Rd, Suite 105, Orlando, FL 32835, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
