When Parents See Red

Conjunctivitis, or ‘’Pink Eye’’ as it is commonly known, is a common infectious eye disease among children at school or day care. The first symptom of conjunctivitis is eye discomfort followed by redness. The natural urge to rub the eyes can cause further inflammation of the conjunctive, the thin transparent membrane lining the inner surfaces of the eyelids, which fold back to cover the front surface of the eyeball. Also, discharges from the eyes during conjunctivitis cause crusts over the eyes. Treatment varies according to type. Bacterial conjunctivitis responds to prescription antibiotic drops or ointment, while viral conjunctivitis will disappear on its own. Both can be soothed with warm compresses to closed eyes.