Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common condition that results in red, inflamed eyes. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, but can also be caused by allergies or irritants. Although pink eye is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes spreads easily to others.
So, how long does pink eye last in babies? Let’s find out.
What is pink eye ?
Pink eye is a common condition that causes redness and inflammation in the eyes. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection but can also be caused by allergies or irritants. Although pink eye is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes spreads easily to others.
How long does pink eye last in babies?
The duration of pink eye depends on the underlying cause. Viral pink eye usually lasts for 7-14 days and often goes away on its own without treatment. Bacterial pink eye is usually more severe and often requires antibiotic drops to clear up the infection.
Allergic pink eye can last as long as the allergy trigger is present. For example, if pollen is causing the allergic reaction, the symptoms will go away when pollen season is over.
How to treat pink eye in babies?
Viral and bacterial pink eye are both highly contagious. If your baby has pink eye, it’s important to keep them away from other children and wash your hands frequently. You should also clean their toys and bottles regularly. To help with the symptoms, you can use a warm compress on their eyes for a few minutes several times a day. This will help soothe any irritation and reduce swelling.
If your baby has bacterial pink eye, they will need antibiotic drops. These drops need to be prescribed by a doctor and should be used for the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms go away before all of the drops have been used. It’s important to finish the entire course of antibiotics to prevent the infection from coming back or spreading to others.
Allergic pink eye can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamine drops or oral medication. These medications can help relieve itchiness and swelling. However, they will not treat the underlying allergy trigger. If your baby’s allergic pink eye is severe, you may need to see an allergist for additional treatment options such as immunotherapy shots.
Conclusion
If your baby has bacterial pink eye, they will need antibiotic drops which need to be prescribed by a doctor.
Allergic pink eye can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamine drops or oral medication but these will not treat the underlying allergy trigger.
If your baby’s allergic pink eye is severe, you may need to see an allergist for additional treatment options such as immunotherapy shots.
