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Eye Infections - Kids Bring Home More Than Homework From School
By Beverly Marshall
Is your child ready to go to school? You worry about coughs and colds that they will bring home, but what about eye infections? Infections of the eye can occur at any time of the year; not just when it's time to go back to school. However, so many of the infections of the eye are contagious so being around more kids in school lends itself to more irritations. Infections, irritations, and allergy issues are all common in school age children. An eye infection in a school age child is usually minor and can be treated with home remedies and without seeing the eye doctor or ophthalmologist. I am not a physician, just a mom that has seen these problems all throughout the school year. It is rare, but if your child has a serious eye infection or it doesn't seem to be clearing after you have done some common sense things; they should see the doctor immediately.
The first eye infection that is common is an inflammation of the eyelids. This may simply be caused by poor hygiene, or also poor general nutrition, where flaky crusts appear on the eyelid. If the infection isn't too severe, gently washing the eyes in the morning and night can alleviate the problem. If the infection is severe, medication might be needed. The second infection is conjunctivitis or pink eye. This is a virus or bacteria that can be highly contagious and passed from child to child by towels and bedding. The child may experience blurry vision, itchy and red or swollen tissue around the eyes, and sensitivity to light. Conjunctivitis can also be caused by allergies and asthma; making both eyes red, swollen, are itchy and tearing. Antihistamines or eye drops might be needed for this. The condition usually clears in about a week with proper hygiene and medication. A stye is the third infection. It is a raised pimple on the eyelid. Apply warm compresses and allow healing to take place. If it does not heal, a topical antibiotic may be called for. This usually calls for a thorough eye examination because it may occur from poor vision. The fourth is blepharitis; causing redness and scaling of the eyes which are itchy and irritated. You might try a no tear shampoo and soft cloth. Your children are probably very active so they may be prone to getting a foreign object in their eye. They will complain of pain and the eyes will be tearing with lots of blinking. Usually washing the eye with lukewarm water will assist the object coming out of the eye. Many parents would throw all of these suggestions right out the window and take their child to the doctor if any of these symptoms show up in the eyes of their children. That's great and they are following their instinct to do so. If you have any questions about the health of your children's eyes, don't hesitate to see your physician or ophthalmologist.
About the Author
Beverly Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying glasses for reading, contacts, laser eye surgery, glasses for safety and more. She gives information and tips to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.
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