Conjunctivitis

At Kids 1st Urgent Care, we recognize that conjunctivitis can be uncomfortable and distressing for both children and parents. Our providers offer empathetic support and guidance throughout the diagnosis and treatment process. Kids 1^st Urgent Care follows the clinical pathways established by the best children's hospitals in the country, ensuring that your child receives care based on the latest and most effective medical standards. We tailor our care to each child's specific needs, ensuring the most appropriate and effective treatment for their condition. Our goal is to provide high-quality, responsive care that not only addresses the immediate needs of treating conjunctivitis but also supports your child's overall health and comfort.

What is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)?

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eye and covers the white part of the eye. This condition can affect one or both eyes and is characterized by a range of symptoms depending on the underlying cause.

What Causes Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Bacterial Infections:
  • Staphylococcus aureus
  • Haemophilus influenza
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Neisseria gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia trachomatis
• Viral Infections:
  • Adenoviruses
  • Herpes virus
• Chemical Irritants:
  • Often seen in newborns following the use of eye medications to prevent other problems.
• Allergies:
  • Common allergens causing conjunctivitis include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
• Herpes Simplex Virus:
  • Can cause more severe and sometimes recurrent eye infections.

Childhood Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a frequent issue in children and can be spread easily in settings like daycare or schools. The common causes in children include:

• Bacterial infections
• Viral infections
• Allergies
• Herpes Simplex Virus

Symptoms of Childhood Conjunctivitis

Symptoms can vary but commonly include:

• Gritty feeling in one or both eyes
• Itchy, irritated eyes
• Clear, thin drainage (often with viral or allergic causes)
• Sneezing and runny nose (typically with allergic conjunctivitis)
• Stringy discharge (often with allergic causes)
• Thick, green drainage (usually with bacterial causes)
• Ear infections (commonly associated with bacterial conjunctivitis)
• Crusty lesions (seen with herpes infection)
• Eyes matted together in the morning
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Pink or red discoloration of the whites of the eyes
• Discomfort from light
• Burning sensation in the eyes

Diagnosis of Conjunctivitis

Diagnosis is generally based on a detailed medical history and a physical examination of the eye. While cultures of eye drainage are not routinely required, they may be performed if necessary to confirm the cause of the infection.

Treatment for Childhood Conjunctivitis

Treatment varies based on the underlying cause:

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis:
  • Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed by your child's provider.
• Viral Conjunctivitis:
  • Typically does not require specific treatment. However, antibiotic drops may be used to prevent secondary infections.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis:
  • Managed by addressing the allergies. Medications such as oral antihistamines or eye drops may be recommended.
• Herpes Simplex Conjunctivitis:
  • Requires specialized treatment from an eye care specialist, which may include oral medications and eye drops. This type of infection can be more severe and may lead to complications like scarring or vision loss.

Prevention and Hygiene:

• Proper handwashing is crucial to prevent the spread of infection.
• Avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
• Change pillowcases frequently and avoid reusing tissues or hand towels on the face.
• Be aware that eye drainage can remain contagious for 24 to 48 hours after starting treatment.

Child-Friendly Environment

Understanding that medical treatments can be stressful for children, all of our providers have been trained by our Child Life Specialists on how to approach your child in a friendly and compassionate manner. We strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible, with a child- centered environment and a caring staff that helps ease any anxiety.

Kids 1st Urgent Care sources its medical research from leading authorities in pediatric medicine, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Texas Children’s Hospital.