Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles Toddler Illness
Eye Infection in Toddlers
Submitted by Pregnancy and Baby Care team on January 18, 2012
An infection is usually caused by a type of virus or bacteria. In some cases, it may occur due to fungi as well. Though, anyone can get affected by an eye infection, young children and toddlers are at a much higher risk since their immune systems are not completely developed. Conjunctivitis and sty are among the most common eye infections in toddlers. It is important to understand the basic difference between these conditions so that a quick diagnosis is possible.
- Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is caused by a virus and is often referred to...
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... as “pink eye.” Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious eye condition that spreads very rapidly and can affect various members of a family simultaneously.
- Stye: This type of an infection is due to the entry of bacteria into the hair follicles. It causes the formation of a small bump on the eyelid. Although this bump is not harmful, it can cause pain and a lot of discomfort. In most cases, it gradually disappears without the need for treatment. However, in order to reduce the pain and discomfort, you can put a cloth soaked in warm water on the affected eyelid for a few minutes. This will greatly help in minimizing the inflammation and the pain.
Symptoms of eye infection in toddlers are very similar to an adult’s symptoms. The most common symptoms of eye infection are:
- Pain in the eye with persistent itching.
- Continuous discharge from the eyes that becomes thicker at night while sleeping. Eye discharge in toddlers and children is usually more than that of elderly individuals.
- Inflammation and redness in the eyes.
- Flaking of the skin on the eye lids and around the eyes.
- Blurred vision.
- Restlessness and discomfort.
Toddler eye infection may not be a very serious medical condition, but the pain that it causes makes it a matter of concern for parents. An eye infection in toddlers requires immediate attention and an early diagnosis is essential. The eye infection in a toddler’s eye should be diagnosed at the earliest. If it happens to be conjunctivitis, you will need to take certain precautions to make sure that it does not affect other people in the house.
Usually, both types of eye infections get cured within four to five days. However, the treatment given for an eye infection in toddlers may involve antibiotic medication. Conjunctivitis is a viral infection and so it cannot be treated with antibiotics. However, the doctor may recommend antibiotic medications in order to prevent secondary bacterial infections. You should always consult your pediatrician as soon as you notice any symptoms of eye infection in your toddler.
Read more articles from the Toddler Illness Category.