Conjunctivitis is an infection of the membrane, called conjunctiva, which overhangs the eye and the inside of the eyelid. In most babies, it is caused by a virus, but it can also be bacterial or allergic. Treatment and how long it takes for symptoms to disappear depends on its cause. Treatments can range from simple cleaning of the eyes with physiological serum, to the application of a local antiseptic and/or antibiotic eye drops.
1. Definition and causes of conjunctivitis in babies
Although impressive, conjunctivitis in babies is neither rare nor serious. This is a benign and contagious inflammation of a membrane of the eye: the conjunctiva. Babies have symptoms in one or both eyes: red eye and/or eyelid, itchy and/or runny eye, viscous secretions that stick to the eyelid (especially when waking up). Most often, conjunctivitis is of viral origin, according to publication on baby conjunctivitis published by the French Association of Ambulatory Pediatrics. Very contagious, it involves abundant and clear tearing. If it is bacterial, the causative agent is often streptococcus or staphylococcus; the infection begins unilaterally, and the discharge is moderate and viscous. Finally, allergic conjunctivitis, which is not contagious, affects older babies and is sometimes accompanied by other symptoms (eczema, rhinitis, etc.).
2. Treatment of conjunctivitis in babies
Treatment for conjunctivitis depends on its cause. If it is viral, it does not require any special medication. Parents can simply clean their baby’s eyes with physiological serum and monitor the evolution of symptoms. These end up fading spontaneously over several days. In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, the baby may need antibiotic treatment in the form of antiseptic eye drops. Finally, treatment for allergic conjunctivitis may involve drops based on antihistamines or corticosteroids. Conjunctivitis occurring during the baby’s first month is a medical emergency.
3. Duration of conjunctivitis in babies
In case of viral conjunctivitis, the symptoms disappear spontaneously. Recovery may take one to two weeks, according to the Infectious Conjunctivitis Study published by Wills Eye Hospital. The duration varies from one baby to another, depending on age, environment and even immunity. When the infection is of bacterial origin, antibiotic treatment allows the baby to heal. Symptoms begin to gradually fade after 3 days, according to the French Association of Ambulatory Pediatrics.
Sources
- Conjunctivitis in babies: our advice for recognizing and treating it, French Association of Ambulatory Pediatrics, November 7, 2022
- Infectious Conjunctivitis, Wills Eye Hospital, via MSD Manual – Consumer Version, April 2023
- Neonatal Conjunctivitis, University of Rochester Medical Center, via The MSD Manual – Healthcare Professional Version, July 2022