conjunctivitis (pink eye)
also known as: pink eye, sticky eye, eye infection
conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. it can be bacterial (thick yellow/green discharge), viral (watery discharge, often with a cold), or allergic (itchy, watery, both eyes). bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are common in children and usually clear up without serious treatment.
contagious
bacterial and viral: yes, very contagious. allergic: not contagious
duration
bacterial: 5-7 days (faster with antibiotics). viral: 1-2 weeks. allergic: depends on exposure
common age
all ages — common in childcare and school settings
symptoms
- •red or pink eye (one or both)
- •watery or sticky discharge
- •crusting around the eyelids, especially after sleep
- •itchy or gritty feeling in the eye
- •swollen eyelids
- •sensitivity to light in some cases
when to see a doctor
see your GP or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if:
- •your child is a newborn (under 28 days) — needs urgent assessment
- •pain in the eye (not just irritation)
- •sensitivity to light
- •vision changes or blurred vision
- •symptoms not improving after 2 days
- •thick yellow or green discharge that keeps coming back
- •your child wears contact lenses
when to call 000
call 000 immediately if:
- •sudden loss of vision
- •severe eye pain with nausea and vomiting (possible acute glaucoma — rare in children)
- •eye injury with chemical exposure
home treatment
- •clean eyes gently with cotton wool soaked in cooled boiled water (one piece per eye, wipe inner to outer corner)
- •use separate towels and washcloths for the infected child
- •wash hands frequently — especially after touching eyes
- •do not share eye drops between children or family members
- •bacterial conjunctivitis: your GP may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment
- •viral conjunctivitis: no treatment needed — will clear up on its own in 1-2 weeks
- •allergic conjunctivitis: antihistamine eye drops from the pharmacy may help
prevention
- •frequent handwashing
- •do not share towels, washcloths, or pillowcases
- •teach children not to touch or rub their eyes
- •clean glasses and sunglasses regularly
- •for allergic conjunctivitis: avoid known allergens where possible
this guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. if you are concerned about your child, see your GP, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84), or in an emergency call 000. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department or health service.