Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It is a common condition in children and can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. Recognizing the signs of conjunctivitis early can help in managing the condition and preventing its spread to others. Dr. Jeffrey Mantia at Grandville Pediatrics in Grandville, MI, can explain what conjunctivitis is and how you can recognize the signs in your child.
Understanding The Signs of Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a common condition that your pediatrician in Grandville, MI, can help treat. It’s important that you’re able to identify when your child might be dealing with conjunctivitis so that they can receive treatment as soon as possible. This helps stop it from spreading to others and can reduce any complications your child might deal with.
One of the most noticeable signs of conjunctivitis is redness in the white part of the eye. This redness may affect one or both eyes and can be accompanied by a pink or reddish hue. Children with conjunctivitis often experience itching, irritation, or a burning sensation in their eyes. They may frequently rub their eyes to relieve the discomfort, which can sometimes worsen the condition.
You may notice different types of discharge in your child’s eyes. The discharge will vary, but can be:
- Thick and yellow or greenish
- Watery and clear
- Thin and watery
The inflammation from conjunctivitis can cause the eyelids to swell. This swelling can make the eyes appear puffy and may sometimes be associated with redness or irritation. Children with conjunctivitis may be more sensitive to light and may squint or close their eyes in bright environments. Bacterial conjunctivitis, in particular, can lead to crusty eyelids, especially upon waking. This crusting can be due to the thick discharge that dries overnight.
Contact Our Pediatrician Today
Make sure you know when your child is dealing with conjunctivitis. Contact Dr. Jeffrey Mantia at Grandville Pediatrics in Grandville, MI, to learn more about conjunctivitis and how to identify signs of it. Call for more information today at (616) 538-2410.