by Scott Silverman, MD
Fellowship trained Pediatric Ophthalmologist

Every mom knows and fears it. It stalks playgrounds, day care, schools and can be found in every household sometime during childhood. The dreaded Pink Eye. What is it and how do we stop it? Read on.

Pink eye is known as conjunctivitis in medical terminology. This inflammatory condition affects the conjunctiva - As we learned last month this is a thin membrane that covers the white of the eye (sclera). It normally produces moisture to coat and lubricate the eye and has tiny blood vessels. When this membrane becomes irritated or inflamed the blood vessels enlarge, thus making the eye red.

Causes of conjunctivitis vary but most commonly arise from:
1) infection
2) allergy
3) environmental irritants.

Infectious causes include bacteria and viruses which are very common when children are together. The distinguishing mark of an infection is a discharge of fluid - pus, that can crust around the lids and eyelashes. Your doctor will most likely prescribe a regimen of ophthalmic antibiotic drops or ointments to be used in cases of bacterial infection.

Viral infections produce red eyes, sore throat and runny nose - symptoms found with the common cold. There is usually a watery discharge and can last from one to two weeks, or until the virus has run its course.

Infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, whether its viral or bacterial. Contact of common objects must be avoided - towels, clothing, etc. Anything that person touches can be contaminated. Because of this frequent handwashing is advised.

Allergies can also produce conjunctivitis. Some allergies produce itchy, watery eyes while others will give a chronic redness. Antihistamines, drugs that suppress the body's immune response, may be effective in relieving symptoms. As with any other medication, check with your family doctor to make sure it is right for you or your child.

Environmental irritants such as smoke, or fumes may cause conjunctivitis. In these cases eradication of the offending irritant is the best remedy.

Uncommon Causes
Several diseases can produce red eyes and are of a more serious nature than conjunctivitis. Symptoms to watch for are pain, blurred vision, and severe light sensitivity. A medical evaluation of a red eye is necessary to determine what is the cause to avoid possible damage.

The key is prevention. Handwashing is very effective and can prevent many cases - especially spreading the condition from one eye to the other. Careful supervision and quick action can help lessen the severity of a common childhood illness from infiltrating your family and home.