What Are The Causes Of Conjunctivitis In Babies?
It is important that parents are aware of the causes of conjunctivitis in babies as this disease can affect their eyes from an early age.
Conjunctivitis is a common infection in newborns and young children that attacks the conjunctiva – a transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye.
When this membrane becomes infected, the eye becomes pink, which is a sign of conjunctivitis.
The causes of conjunctivitis in babies
There are several different causes of conjunctivitis in babies : a new infection caused by viruses and bacteria, an allergic reaction – produced by allergens – or a reaction to something in the eye that causes irritation.
We will describe below each of the causes of this disease in detail:
- Viral infection: Viruses are infectious microorganisms that attack the conjunctiva. Most of these viral infections are caused by adenovirus – measles, rubella, common cold, etc.
- Bacterial infection: This occurs when bacteria contaminate the conjunctiva. It can occur in the mother’s vaginal tract during natural birth – in newborns – and by touching surfaces that are contaminated with staphylococci or streptococci such as objects, towels, skin contact.
- Allergens: These are substances that can cause allergic reactions to dust, pollen, smoke, etc.
- Chemicals: Irritation can occur as a reaction to the drops given to newborns after they have been born to prevent infections from bacteria. It occurs as a mild eye irritation and lasts between 24-36 hours.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis in babies
It is important to learn to identify the signs that show that babies have suffered from conjunctivitis. Mothers should pay close attention to their children’s behaviors.
Symptoms may vary depending on the causes of the condition. Below we will take a list of common symptoms:
- Constant tears
- Light sensitivity
- Inflammation of the white part of the eye and eyelid
- Itchy and burning eyes
- Red eyes
- White, yellow or green secretions
The first thing to do when you notice some of the symptoms above is to go to a pediatrician to get a diagnosis and follow his recommended treatment.
To treat conjunctivitis in babies
The treatment will depend on the type of conjunctivitis it is about and the cause. In most cases, a conjunctivitis develops and heals without the need for any specific treatment.
If, on the other hand, you want to relieve conjunctivitis caused by bacteria, you must apply drops or an antibiotic gel. In general, you can follow these steps:
- Keep your eyes clean by cleaning the area with cotton dipped in boiling water, at least three times a day.
- The person performing the cleaning must always wash their hands before this process.
- Carefully place the cold compresses on the eyelids.
- Apply artificial tears to relieve inflammation.
- Always use disposable material when removing liquids.
- Do not share sheets, towels or clothes during the illness period. When the treatment is finished, you should wash them thoroughly.
To prevent conjunctivitis
You can prevent your baby from getting conjunctivitis. But to be able to do that, it is important that parents think about the following recommendations:
- Wash your hands often or bring antibacterial gel with you so you can apply this before handling your baby.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, handkerchiefs, etc.
- If your child suffers from allergies, consult a pediatrician to avoid the underlying cause.
Also keep in mind that even if you carry out the preventive measures, babies will always be exposed to external factors in the surrounding environment.
It is therefore very likely that they will sooner or later suffer from this contagious disease.
It is important that parents inform themselves about the causes of conjunctivitis in babies so that they can treat it in time so that the baby can recover faster.
