Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is commonly caused by bacteria, viruses or allergies. Symptoms include red, itchy, uncomfortable and swollen eyes and discharge. Though the inflammation of pink eye can be irritating, it rarely affects vision.

With bacterial pink eye, the discharge is significant and continuous, thick, and yellow to green in color. A child with bacterial conjunctivitis might wake up with his or her eyes crusted shut. Bacterial forms of pink eye can be treated with antibiotic ointments or eye drops. In viral or allergic pink eye, the discharge is often more watery.

Pink eye is very contagious so an affected child might have to miss school or childcare.

If you suspect that your child has pink eye, early diagnosis and treatment is best to help limit its spread. Please call us during regular office hours so that we can see your child in our office. In the meantime, make sure your family’s hands are all being washed often, as well as your child’s towels and pillow cases.