7 Days Pediatrics - Amboy Office

(732) 548-3210

7 Days Pediatrics - Oak Tree Office

(732) 548-3210

7 Days Pediatrics - South Plainfield Office

(732) 548-3210
Common Causes of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation that affects children more than adults, putting your child at high risk of having the inflammation at any time.

If your child is having symptoms of conjunctivitis, visit our practice, 7 Days Pediatrics. Our qualified pediatricians serve patients in Edison, Amboy, Oak Tree, and South Plainfield, NJ.

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation in the conjunctiva, the thin clear layer that is covering your eye. It is a contagious disease that spreads rapidly but rarely causes long-term eye problems.

What are the causes of conjunctivitis?

Many eye irritants can cause conjunctivitis in different degrees. Shampoos, smoke, sand, and chlorine from swimming pools are examples of eye irritants. Another commonly seen cause of conjunctivitis is the microbial infections of the conjunctiva. Between the highly infecting microorganisms are viruses, bacteria, and some types of fungi. Also, allergic reactions to any substance can lead to inflammation.
The spreadability of the disease depends on its cause. If it’s a microbial infection, it may spread from one child to another in a rapid manner.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

The symptoms of the disease may differ from case to case, depending on the cause of conjunctivitis. The following are symptoms that are seen in most cases, regardless of the underlying cause:

  • Eye redness
  • Increased lacrimation
  • Irritation in the eyes
  • Accumulation of yellow discharge on the eyelashes
  • Burning sensation in the eye
  • Impaired vision

If your child suffers from any of these symptoms in Edison, Amboy, Oak Tree, or South Plainfield, NJ, consult your pediatrician immediately.

What are the treatment options?

The treatment plan depends highly on the case severity and the underlying cause. After evaluating your child and doing the needed examinations and imaging, your pediatrician will customize the suitable treatment plan. It may include using topical antibiotics or antihistamines or simply rinsing the infected eye with water. Besides the treatment that the pediatrician will recommend, the following tips can be helpful:

  • Keep your child’s hands clean
  • Keep their eyes away from dirt and irritants
  • Avoid touching the infected eye
  • Avoid using a patch on the eye
  • Use warm compresses

Contact us

Get relief from conjunctivitis in Edison, Amboy, Oak Tree, or South Plainfield, NJ, by visiting your pediatricians at 7 Days Pediatrics. Call (732) 548-3210 and book your appointment today!