Conjunctivitis –Pink eyes in children- Causes, Prevention, Treatment
Conjunctivitis is a contagious condition commonly referred to as pink eyes. Pink eyes or conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the surface membrane that forms a covering over eye and eyelid. Inflammation of the eye area is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. Tiny blood vessels dilate in response to the inflammation resulting in eye appearing red or pink in colour.

Symptoms commonly experienced with conjunctivitis:
*Redness of the eyelid can occur in one or both eyes
*A gritty or foreign body sensation is usually experienced under the eyelid area. Avoid rubbing the eyes as this can aggravate and worsen the condition
*Pain and soreness accompanied with itching in one or both eyes is commonly experienced with conjunctivitis
*A white -yellow substance is usually discharged from the ducts of the eye forming a crust. The crust often covers the eye making it difficult to open the eyes especially during the morning.
*The eyes can develop sensitivity to light creating discomfort
*Swelling of the eyelids is a common complaint experienced with conjunctivitis
*Burning and tearing sensations are common symptoms experienced

Causes associated with conjunctivitis:
*Viruses such as adenovirus associated with colds and flu, ear infections and sinuses can cause conjunctivitis in one or both the eyes. Conjunctivitis caused by a viral infection produces a watery discharge
*Staphyloccocal and streptococcal bacteria are also responsible for the infection of the eye area. Bacterial conjunctivitis or pink eyes produces thick yellowish discharge associated with recurrent eye infection or a sore throat. This type of infection is common in children
*Allergies can contribute to conjunctivitis affecting both the eyes. The immune system produces antibodies to fight foreign material such as smoke, pollen or other allergens invading the body.
*Individuals with long term use of contact lens are at a high risk of contacting conjunctivitis or pink eyes
*Airborne irritants in the environment or a splash of foreign liquid in the eye can lead to the development conjunctivitis
*Individuals diagnosed with atopic dermatitis are prone in contacting conjunctivitis
*A child can be infected with conjunctivitis if he or she is in direct contact with an infected individual. This infection can spread through the use of contaminated water food or eating utensils. The symptoms of conjunctivitis can occur within a few days of the infection lasting for 7-14 days.

Treating conjunctivitis:
*Topical medication such as eye drops or ointment is usually prescribed as an effective remedy in the treatment of conjunctivitis. The condition often clears up within 1-2 days.
*The prescribed course should be taken to avoid a reoccurrence of the infection
*Avoid the use of eye make-up during the infection to prevent the condition worsening
*To decrease swelling and discomfort soothe the eye area with a lukewarm ice pack
*Avoid rubbing to prevent further agitation of the eye.
Preventing the infection of conjunctivitis
*Hands should be properly sterilised as this would prevent or decrease the occurrence of conjunctivitis
*During illnesses such as colds and flu the bed linen should be changed regularly
*Discard used eye make-up that can be contaminated with conjunctivitis
*Avoid close contact with individuals infected with conjunctivitis