Signs of Pink Eye in Kids — And When to Call the Doctor

Pink eye (conjunctivitis) spreads fast in schools and daycares, and it can look scary even when it's not serious. The good news: most cases in kids are mild and treatable. Here's how to tell what type your child has and what to do about it.

What Does Pink Eye Look Like?

The telltale sign is redness in the white of one or both eyes. But the other symptoms vary depending on the cause:

• Bacterial pink eye: Yellow or green discharge, often causing the eyelashes to crust together overnight. Usually starts in one eye and can spread to the other.

• Viral pink eye: Watery discharge, often accompanying a cold or respiratory illness. Very contagious.

• Allergic pink eye: Itchy, watery eyes in both eyes at once. Often comes with sneezing or a runny nose. Not contagious.

Does Pink Eye Always Need Antibiotics?

No — and this surprises a lot of parents. Viral and allergic pink eye don't respond to antibiotics at all. Only bacterial pink eye is treated with antibiotic eye drops. Since it's hard to tell the types apart without an exam, it's worth bringing your child in so we can make the right call.

When to Call the Doctor

• Discharge is yellow or green

• Eye is very swollen or the eyelid is puffy

• Your child is complaining of eye pain (not just irritation)

• Vision seems blurry or affected

• Symptoms are not improving after a few days

• Your newborn has any eye discharge — this always warrants a call

Keeping It From Spreading

Pink eye is highly contagious. Keep your child home from school until they've been on antibiotic drops for at least 24 hours (for bacterial) or until the discharge clears (for viral). Frequent handwashing is the best prevention — teach kids not to touch their eyes and to wash hands often, especially at school.

Questions about your child's health? Call Burds Family Practice in Peosta at (563) 588-6659 or visit burdsfamilypractice.com to request an appointment. We're here for your family.