Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva, the clear inside lining of the eyelids and the covering over the white of the eye. The term "conjunctivitis" refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva due to one of many causes, some infectious and others not. Although bacterial conjunctivitis is less common than viral conjunctivitis, it is slightly contagious. Antibiotics are required to treat it. Your child is more likely to have bacterial conjunctivitis if contact lenses are worn or if your child is often around many other children as in day care or school.

 

SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE: 

• Are usually seen in one eye first then spread soon to the other
• Matted, swollen eyelid, especially first thing in the morning
• Yellowish discharge
• Redness of the eyelid
• Itching
• Burning
• Sensitivity to light
• Gritty feeling

WHAT YOUR DOCTOR CAN DO:

• Diagnose the disease by taking a culture of the eye discharge.
• Prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to help fight the infection.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Use the drops or ointment as prescribed, being certain to use them for at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared. Otherwise, the infection may return.
• Use warm water compresses frequently. This will soften the crust that develops and make the eye feel better.
• Avoid touching the eyedropper to anything, including your eye.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until the infection has cleared.
• Avoid touching the infected eye or eyes.
• If infection does spread to the other eye, follow the same instructions for that eye.
• Throw away eye makeup and sanitize contact lenses to avoid reinfection.

To prevent the spread to others:

• Wash your hands immediately after using the compresses or medication.
• DO NOT share eye make-up, washcloths, or hand towels with anyone else while infected.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:

• Symptoms should improve within 2-3 days of beginning treatment and the infection should clear completely in one week.
• A possible complication, if not thoroughly treated, is the spreading of infection to other parts of the eye, causing disturbances to vision or permanent eye damage.

CALL 1061 OR SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE If symptoms do not improve within 3 days. A change of medication may be necessary. If you have changes to your vision or other worsening of symptoms.