Allergic conjunctivitis (say "kun-JUNK-tih-VY-tus") is an eye problem that many children get. It is often called pinkeye. In pinkeye, the lining of the eyelid and the eye surface become red and swollen. The lining is called the conjunctiva (say "kawn-junk-TY-vuh").
Pinkeye can be caused by bacteria, a virus, or an allergy.
Your child's pinkeye is caused by an allergy. A substance (allergen) triggers a reaction that results in the symptoms. This type of pinkeye cannot be spread from person to person. Your child may have other symptoms of an allergy, such as a runny nose.
Allergic pinkeye goes away when you keep your child away from the allergen that triggers the pinkeye. Triggers include pollen, mold, and animal skin cells (dander). But because it is not always possible to stay away from triggers, your doctor may suggest eyedrops to treat the symptoms. Antibiotics do not help with allergies.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
Use medicines as directed
Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
If the doctor gave your child eyedrops, use them as directed. Keep the bottle tip clean. To put in eyedrops:
Tilt your child's head back and pull the lower eyelid down with one finger.
Drop or squirt the medicine inside the lower lid.
Have your child close the eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the drops move around.
Do not touch the tip of the bottle to your child's eyelashes or any other surface.
Make your child comfortable
Use moist cotton or a clean, wet cloth to remove the crust from your child's eyes. Wipe from the inside corner of the eye to the outside. Use a clean part of the cloth for each wipe.
Put cold or warm wet cloths on your child's eyes a few times a day if the eyes hurt or are itching.
Do not have your child wear contact lenses until the pinkeye is gone. Clean the contacts and storage case.
If your child wears disposable contacts, get out a new pair when the eyes have cleared and it is safe to wear contacts again.
Avoid triggers
Try to find what triggers the pinkeye. Then take steps to avoid it. For example:
Control animal dander and other pet allergens by keeping pets only in certain areas of your home.
Avoid outdoor pollens by keeping your child inside while pollen counts are high.
Control indoor mold by cleaning bathtubs and showers monthly.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Your child has pain in an eye, not just irritation on the surface.
Your child has a change in vision or a loss of vision.
Pinkeye lasts longer than 7 days.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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