How to quickly cure conjunctivitis in children at home: pharmacy drops and folk remedies

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye diseases in children, which is characterized by an inflammatory process of the conjunctiva. Any type of disease is better to prevent than to treat.

Often, children's conjunctivitis is associated with the child's hypothermia, the occurrence of colds or allergic reactions.

Children's conjunctivitis is quite easy to identify, because the main symptom is inflammation of the eye. But it is worth noting that children react more strongly to this disease. They may be worried about something and as a result they start crying and worrying.

The main symptoms of the disease include the following.

  • Redness of the eyeball.
  • Photophobia and increased tearfulness.
  • Appearance of crusts yellowish color in the corners of the eyes after sleep.
  • Sticking of the eyelids.
  • Purulent discharge from the eyes.
  • Deterioration of appetite and sleep.

Children over ten years of age may experience following symptoms.

  1. Demotion visual function. All objects become blurry and lose their clarity.
  2. Sensation of a foreign body in the eyes.
  3. Burning and discomfort.

If we talk about the main symptoms of conjunctivitis in children under one year old, they include the following problems.

  1. Hyperemia and severe swelling of the eyeball and internal area century
  2. Increased production and separation of tear fluid. An important point is to determine the difference between normal tears in a child while crying and the body’s response to the inflammatory process.
  3. Severe photophobia. This symptom is one of the most important. Therefore, if parents notice that the child regularly squints and rubs his eyes with his hands, then this indicates a problem.
  4. Sticking of eyelids after sleep. This occurs due to the release of secretion or pus in large quantities.
  5. Loss of appetite and frequent moodiness.

Types of conjunctivitis in children

Children's conjunctivitis is usually divided into several types.

  1. Bacterial conjunctivitis. Characterized by the release of pus from the visual organs.
  2. Conjunctivitis allergic nature. Characterized by redness of the eyes, watery eyes, sneezing and nasal congestion. IN in this case no purulent discharge is observed.
  3. Conjunctivitis viral in nature. There is no purulent discharge, but eye irritation is observed.
  4. Adenoviral conjunctivitis. The first symptoms of the disease include pharyngitis and increased body temperature.

Causes of childhood conjunctivitis

Children's conjunctivitis occurs most often in those children who attend kindergartens or schools. The thing is that the disease by its nature is considered contagious and is transmitted by airborne droplets and by contact. Therefore, the main reasons are usually attributed to a decrease in immune function in autumn and winter periods, hypothermia, lack of vitamins and minerals, exposure to irritants in the form of dust, pollen and wool, and poor hygiene.

Treatment of conjunctivitis in children under one year of age

All treatment directly depends on the type of conjunctivitis the child has. Therefore, first of all, it is recommended to show the baby to the doctor so that he can diagnose correct diagnosis and advised how to care for sore eyes. Treatment process in children under one year of age, it differs in that all procedures and the effects of medications were more gentle. Therefore, pediatricians are trying to avoid the use of potent drugs.

  1. Rinse the child's eyes every two hours. To do this, you can use simple boiled warm water, chamomile infusion or furatsilin. The main condition is maintaining sterility. This is necessary in order not to worsen the condition.
  2. After seven days, the child’s visual organ should be cleaned no more than twice a day.
  3. In addition to cleansing procedures, you need to drip Albucid into your eyes. Treatment of babies under one year old involves the use of the strongest solutions only in difficult situations. Once improvement has occurred, manipulations should be carried out no more than three times a day.
  4. In some cases, the doctor may recommend treating conjunctivitis with tetracycline ointment, which is carefully placed under the lower eyelid.
  5. If the inflammatory process is observed only in one eye, then all procedures should be done in parallel on the second one to eliminate the possibility of infection.
  6. In case of acute illness, no dressings should be done. This will help lead to injury to the eyelid and the proliferation of bacteria and germs.

Treatment of conjunctivitis in children over one year of age

To cure childhood conjunctivitis, you need to follow several rules.

  1. It is better not to do anything before the examination. You can wipe your eyes with chamomile infusion or plain boiled water. If parents suspect conjunctivitis of a viral or bacterial nature, then Albucid can be administered. If an allergic form of the disease is suspected, then it is necessary to give an antihistamine.
  2. If a doctor diagnoses a viral or bacterial type of disease, the child should wash his eyes every two hours. Children over two years old can remove crusts using cotton swab. If this allergic manifestation, then children should apply cold compresses to relieve swelling.
  3. During an inflammatory process, two eyes should always be treated. For each individual, take one cotton pad, which is pre-moistened in the solution.
  4. For children over one year old, you can use such types of drops as Futsitalmic, Levomycetin and Vitabact.
  5. If the child’s condition improves, procedures can be reduced to twice a day.

It is necessary to remember that various shapes conjunctivitis is treated different drugs. For example, if a child has a bacterial type of illness, then antibiotic-based drops and ointments will help in this situation. These include Levomycetin and Tetracycline.

The viral form can only be cured with ointments and tablets based on Acyclovir. Drops with an antiviral effect in the form of Trifluridine and Poldan are also prescribed.

The allergic type may be joined by a bacterial form. Therefore, first of all they give antihistamines, limit contact with the irritant, and when severe forms appoint hormonal agents. Such drugs include Cromohexal, Allergodil, Lecrolin and Dexamethasone.

Proper placement of drops into children's eyes

  1. When the disease occurs in children under one year of age, the medicine should be dripped only using a pipette with a rounded tip. This will help avoid unnecessary injury to your baby's eyes.
  2. An infant should be placed on a surface without using a pillow. Then you should pull the lower eyelid a little and drop one or two drops. The drug will distribute itself along the plane visual organ. And the excess part that comes out needs to be wiped off carefully with a napkin.
  3. When the child is older, he already understands what is being done to him. And often they close their eyes. But it's not a problem. The product can be dropped between the base of the upper and lower eyelids. The medicine will still get into the eye when the child opens it slightly.
  4. Cool drops should be preheated in a warm hand or water. And only then use them, otherwise the baby may become irritated.
  5. It is not recommended to use eye drops that have expired.
  6. It is better to teach children over seven years old to put eye drops themselves under the supervision of a parent.

Preventive measures to prevent the occurrence of childhood conjunctivitis

Like any type of disease, childhood conjunctivitis is easier to prevent than to treat later. Therefore, several preventive measures should be followed.

  1. Observe hygiene measures.
  2. Treat toys and premises with disinfectants.
  3. Buy air purifiers and humidifiers.
  4. Strengthen the child’s immune function with the help of vitamin complexes.
  5. Take a walk often.
  6. Limit contact with sick children.
  7. Contact your doctor promptly.
  8. Establish a proper and balanced diet.

If treatment is started on time, conjunctivitis goes away quite quickly. And if all measures are followed, infection can be avoided altogether.

In this article you will learn everything about eye conjunctivitis - treatment in children. Komarovsky in his video (located at the end of the publication) will talk in more detail about conjunctivitis in infants and older children. Also here you will find information about the symptoms of the disease in a newborn baby and a child aged 2-3 years, how to treat it and which remedy is best suited for allergic, purulent, bacterial or chronic conjunctivitis.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes is accompanied by the development of conjunctivitis. The mucous membrane protects the eyes from negative external influence. The ingress of various harmful microorganisms causes irritation and the development of eye diseases.

The most common among them is conjunctivitis of the eyes, as children often rub their eyes. with dirty hands(playing in the sandbox or with the cat). It’s no wonder why a child often develops conjunctivitis in childhood.

Causes of conjunctivitis in newborn infants and children 2-3 years old

Conjunctivitis is an infectious viral disease that is accompanied by inflammatory processes and irritation of the mucous membrane of the eyes. Treatment in children is recommended in the first stages of development; do not start the disease, otherwise it will lead to complications.

Treatment at home is carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor. Before treating a disease, it is necessary to find out the reasons for its development.

In most cases, the disease develops in a child under 3 years of age for the following reasons:

  • getting bacteria into the eyes;
  • allergic reaction;
  • hypothermia of the body;
  • eye irritation;
  • runny nose or cold;
  • with ARVI;
  • dry eye syndrome.

In a newborn baby, the development of the disease can occur for 2 reasons:

  • at birth;
  • during the birth process due to non-compliance with hygiene rules by medical personnel.

The incubation period lasts from 2 to 3 days, during this period it is important to provide timely treatment for children and limit communication with other children, as it is contagious. The baby looks tired and tired.

How is it transmitted

Considering that a baby's immune system is not yet fully developed, it is understandable why illness can occur due to a cold. Treatment of the disease in newborns is carried out inpatiently, in order to avoid complications and the development of other pathological diseases, for example homeopathy.

Children from 5-6-7 years old can catch the infection when interacting with other kids or while playing (for example, sharing toys, holding hands while playing). However, allergic conjunctivitis develops due to intolerance to specific odors, dust or pollen.

There are the following types of disease:

Signs and symptoms of the disease (photos)

Bacterial conjunctivitis is accompanied by purulence and sensation foreign body inside the eyes. The kids always want to rub their eyes, which makes the situation even worse. How long the treatment of the disease lasts depends on the degree of its severity and neglect.

Signs and symptoms of eye conjunctivitis in infants and adults:

  • there is swelling and redness of the eyes;
  • unbearable severe itching;
  • frequent purulent discharge;
  • eyelids are red;
  • dry cough;
  • green snot;
  • the appearance of follicle film;
  • severe tearing;
  • swollen eye;
  • Constant burning sensation inside the eyes.

The first signs of the disease are the appearance of severe unbearable itching and a burning sensation. U infant a high temperature may occur. The disease is transmitted if it is of a fungal or viral type. Before finding out how to treat the disease, it is necessary to determine the cause of its development.

Eye conjunctivitis - treatment in children

Complications of the disease can lead to deterioration of vision and the development of other pathological diseases. Immediately, as soon as the first signs appeared in one year old child, you need to seek medical help and instill Albucid drops, as well as use other medications and antibiotics. First of all, the doctor must determine the type of conjunctivitis, and then prescribe the necessary treatment.

If a one-year-old baby is diagnosed with viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, then it is necessary to rinse the eyes with a special solution or use Furacilin. How to dilute the solution correctly and better (add 1 tablet to half a glass of water). Carry out the procedure 3 times for several days until complete recovery.

Do not wash your eyes with the solution when allergic form diseases. Even if in children aged 2-3-4 months only 1 eye is inflamed, prevention is carried out on the second one too. Prevention should be carried out one month after treatment.

  • Children should not wear an eye patch at night;
  • take only those antibiotics and medications prescribed by your doctor;
  • first aid should be provided at the first symptoms;
  • swimming in ponds or rivers is prohibited;
  • wash your eyes with special solutions (chloramphenicol, futsitalmic, penicillin, ophthalmoferon, derinat, erythromycin) as you see in the photo;
  • You cannot swim in pools and ponds.

Allergic conjunctivitis in a child

With the allergic type of conjunctivitis, a four-year-old child often has an itchy eye. The irritant may be dust, household chemicals and drugs. It is not recommended to treat the disease with folk remedies yourself, as this can lead to complications of the disease.

After undergoing an examination in a one-month-old baby, you can determine the cause of the development of allergies and understand how to wash the eyes with conjunctivitis in children even at 2 years old. It is important to limit contact with pets, since an allergic reaction often occurs from a cat, namely from its fur, in children aged 3 years.

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If you are wondering why your baby spits up after feeding breast milk, simply, because regurgitation after breastfeeding may be dangerous.

Purulent

Wrong and untimely treatment leads to complications and transition of the disease to a chronic form. Chronic conjunctivitis of the eyes periodically causes complications throughout life. As shown in the video purulent or bacterial species The disease begins to develop when bacteria penetrate the mucous membrane of the eyes.

What to do with purulent discharge to cure it:

  • wash with cotton swabs (use a new swab each time);
  • use tampons separately for each eye;
  • Use tetracycline ointment and other medicine for conjunctivitis in children under one year of age or more.

Treatment of purulent conjunctivitis lasts approximately 1 month, depending on the severity of the disease. Tetracycline treatment is used to relieve itching and burning sensation.

Bacterial

The first signs of a bacterial type of disease in babies 8-9-10 months old are the appearance of purulent discharge and dry skin around the eyes. What parents are most interested in is how long does it take to treat the disease? With timely medical care the disease subsides within 2-3 days.

It is not surprising why bacterial conjunctivitis occurs. The reasons for the development may be contact with an infected person or frequently bathing the child in a pool or pond (especially in summer).

Chronic

Mostly chronic form manifests itself in elderly people if in childhood under 2 years of age, in which case it is required careful care and treatment alcohol tincture propolis.

Chronic conjunctivitis of the eyes in children at five months is treated antiviral agents And . For example, Sofradex drops restore the functioning of the mucous membrane of the eye and prevent the development of inflammatory processes, and also reduce irritation.

How and with what to treat conjunctivitis at home using folk remedies

Effective treatment will be provided that you follow all the doctor’s recommendations and use not only medications, but also folk remedies. Treatment at home should be aimed at reducing swelling and clearing pus from the eye. Aloe juice helps one year old baby relieve the allergic reaction of conjunctivitis and get rid of burning and itching.

Conjunctivitis of the eye and its treatment with aloe juice is carried out in two ways:

  • drop 2 drops into the eyes once a day (dilute with water 1:10);
  • wet the swab and apply it to the sore eye.

You also need to wash your eyes with sodium sulfacyl solution. It helps relieve tearing and kills bacteria. It is recommended to use folk remedies for children for at least 5 months, after consulting with your doctor.

What Komarovksky says about the disease (video)

Dr. Komarovsky believes that acute respiratory infections and eye conjunctivitis are interconnected, since bacteria can develop in organs respiratory tract, and then spread to the mucous membrane of the eyes, so one of the symptoms may be a cough. Babies as young as 1 year of age may become more likely to become infected with the disease than adults.

Since there is different kinds illness, then the question of how to treat depends on the cause of the illness. Komarovsky recommends that before putting drops into your eyes, wash your hands thoroughly before the procedure and change the pipette every time so as not to infect the other eye. User reviews show how effective Dr. Komarovsky's methods are.

It often develops at the age of 3, and parents must know how to treat it. They must carefully monitor the health of their child. This disease can progress subsequently to hypothermia, acute respiratory viral infection, and rhinitis. If you notice any manifestations and the slightest signs, you need to react instantly. It can be:

  • red eyes;
  • purulent discharge;
  • swollen eyelids;
  • the baby rubs them;
  • crying restlessly.

Self-medication will only cause harm, so immediately consult an ophthalmologist. Only he can tell you how to treat conjunctivitis in a 3-year-old child. The doctor will quickly diagnose and prescribe a safe prescription for the baby. Adults will help a professional if they share observations of the process of disease development.

A pediatric ophthalmologist selects how to treat conjunctivitis only when he determines the type of inflammation. There are viral, bacterial, allergic suppuration. The course of therapy includes medications (drops, ointments), lotions. The drugs are all local.

Before digging into the eyes and applying ointments, you must first do a sterile treatment of the affected organ from the outer to the inner corner. Perform the procedure using gauze swabs and antiseptics. A solution with furatsilin or boric acid is suitable for this.

Bacteria, viruses, allergens are the causative agents of conjunctivitis in children and adults. Suitable medications are prescribed for each case of illness.

They say that folk remedies help in the treatment of this type of inflammation. These are compresses from carrots, aloe, rosehip decoctions, tea leaves and others. They are not sterile and should not be used. Such recipes will only complicate the current condition and cause additional allergic reactions.

Parents are required to apply therapy according to the instructions of the ophthalmologist. Otherwise, the situation will worsen.

Therapy for various types of eye inflammation in children

Using folk remedies without consulting a specialist can only harm the child.

Young mothers often wonder how long it takes to treat this disease in children? Conjunctivitis with proper therapy disappears in babies within 7-21 days. As soon as its signs disappear, you must continue to use the drugs for 2-3 days. This will help eliminate the possibility re-inflammation The child has.

Medicines prescribed by an ophthalmologist help fight only one type of pathogen. Drops accelerate the recovery of affected tissues and eliminate the cause.

Viral conjunctivitis

This disease often appears in one eye of a child. The attending physician indicates in the prescription the name of the solution and dosage. The prescribed medications contain an active antiviral component. It blocks the source of development of the disease. The course of therapy lasts on average 2 weeks.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

It is possible to stop the development and neutralize harmful bacteria only with drugs that contain antibiotics. Their concentration is small and they are safe for treating young children. You need to drip the solution 5-6 times a day, 2 drops. If the eye condition gradually improves, reduce the intake.

The pharmaceutical industry offers many drops and ointments for the treatment of bacterial suppuration, but the doctor determines the necessary ones based on active form bacteria.

If baby for a long time does not improve, then the parents should visit the ophthalmologist again. He will pick up comprehensive course, with the participation of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Allergic eye inflammation

It affects both eyes at once. An illness of this type can be treated when the cause of the allergic reaction has been determined. An ophthalmologist can make a conclusion after complex diagnostics. He will write out the appropriate one antihistamine. First you need to get rid of the causative agent of the reaction.

In such situations, children are prescribed Allergodil. This drug is used for prevention and during exacerbation of allergic conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis can be treated in a short period of time. The main thing: contact a specialist in the early stages.

  • Before visiting a professional, do not use medications. If the ophthalmological examination is delayed, the child must be given first aid. If you suspect a viral or bacterial inflammation eye - instill Albucid. It is suitable for children of any age. If you are sure that it is developing allergic inflammation– give to the child orally antihistamine medicine.
  • For bacterial and viral diseases, doctors advise rinsing the eyes with furatsilin solution every 2 hours. To do this, dissolve 1 tablet in ½ glass of water. Use separate sterile gauze pads during each procedure. Cannot be used cotton swabs. Their small particles remain on the conjunctiva and complicate the course of the disease.

Allergic conjunctivitis was diagnosed - do not rinse.

  • When 1 eye is sick, therapy should be carried out on both. This is for treatment and prevention, because the disease quickly passes from the affected eye to the healthy one.
  • It is forbidden to apply a bandage during treatment. It creates a favorable, moist environment for the spread of infection into the cornea.
  • Use solutions only as prescribed by an ophthalmologist.
  • Antiseptic drops dig every 3 hours.
  • Place the ointment only on the lower eyelid.
  • The dosage and frequency of use of drugs is reduced when improvements in the condition of the organ are visible.

It is difficult to treat conjunctivitis in children aged 3 years, from the point of view of parents. Young patients are mischievous and refuse any treatment methods. But you can talk to them and explain that this is necessary. Adults should learn how to use medications correctly.

How to properly instill the solution in children with conjunctivitis:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly. Don't panic, calm the child down. Show on by example that it's not scary.
  2. Before each instillation, rinse.
  3. Place the patient in a comfortable position.
  4. Put forefinger on upper eyelid and lift it a little, with a large one - pull the lower one.
  5. The second hand contains drops. Without touching the eye, drop the solution between the eyelids. So it will be evenly distributed over the eye. Excess must be removed sterile wipe.
  6. Remove your hands and ask your baby to blink slowly.
  7. If the situation is difficult and the child does not allow him to open his eyes, squeeze 2-3 drops onto closed eyelids. He will reflexively open them and the solution will fall into the designated place.

Sometimes it is difficult for children to put eye drops in their eyes - they constantly turn and dodge. It is necessary to explain how important the procedure is and even show by example that it is not painful or scary.

Note!

Conjunctivitis in a child aged 3 years - serious illness eye. A common disease in many children. Parents shouldn't be afraid of this. We must act to protect our child and prevent the possibility of complications.

You should not risk your baby’s health and use medications on your own. Only a qualified ophthalmologist knows how to treat and will give effective recommendations.

Proper treatment is prevention. Teach your child the rules of hygiene: washing hands, using a personal towel, handkerchief. Don’t forget: it is necessary to disinfect toys (especially for playing outside), do high-quality and timely wet cleaning around the house.

May 9, 2017 Anastasia Graudina

Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the eye caused by exposure to allergens or pathogenic microorganisms(viruses, bacteria). Most often, only one eye becomes inflamed at first, then symptoms appear in the other. Many parents underestimate the seriousness of the disease and rarely seek treatment from a doctor. However, the wrong choice medicinal product can lead to a deterioration in the child’s condition and the transition of the disease to chronic stage.

Conjunctivitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, incorrect treatment which could lead to serious problems with vision

Characteristic signs and causes of conjunctivitis

Typically, conjunctivitis in children develops gradually - at first there is slight redness and a feeling of discomfort in the eye, then the inflammation quickly intensifies, and the child develops the following symptoms:

  • swelling of the upper and lower eyelids, narrowing of the palpebral fissure;
  • photophobia, constant lacrimation;
  • a feeling of sand in the eye or a “veil” before the eyes;
  • purulent or mucous discharge from the eyes;
  • after sleep, eyelashes may stick together with pus;
  • dry yellow crusts form in the corners of the eyes;
  • pain when moving eyeballs;
  • temporary visual impairment.

The child becomes restless, involuntarily rubs his eyes, and cries. Older children may complain of general malaise, decreased appetite, or pain or burning in the eye. If the child’s immunity is reduced, the disease may occur with high temperature body and complications. Conjunctivitis is most common among preschool children aged 2-4 years, because... Babies can unknowingly introduce infection into their eyes with dirty hands.

The main cause of conjunctivitis in children is a violation of hygiene rules, which entails the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungal spores) into the conjunctiva. A child can become infected at birth through infected birth canal mother or subsequently, due to improper hygienic care.

The disease can develop against the background of ARVI, general decline immunity, after hypothermia or overheating of a child, exposure to foreign object into the eye (eyelashes, dust, insects). Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes can also be of an allergic nature.

Types of disease

Typically, conjunctivitis occurs with severe symptoms, and diagnosis is not difficult. Depending on the symptoms and the cause that provoked the disease, conjunctivitis is divided into the following types: bacterial, viral, allergic and purulent. In the absence of correct and timely treatment, any of the listed forms can become chronic.

Bacterial

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci, gonococci and chlamydia. The disease begins with itching and swelling of the eyelids, the child may complain of painful sensations when moving the eyeballs and blinking. Then conjunctival hyperemia occurs, the mucous membrane becomes uneven, possible pinpoint hemorrhages. On the second day of the disease, abundant purulent discharge appears. Inflammatory process can spread to the child’s eyelids and even cheeks, which is manifested by hyperemia and peeling of the skin.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Gonococcal conjunctivitis (gonoblenorrhea) can develop in a newborn when passing through the infected birth canal of a woman in labor. The first symptoms appear 2-4 days after birth, the baby’s eyelids become very swollen and acquire a bluish-red tint, and the palpebral fissure narrows. The mucous membrane of the eye is hyperemic, a serous-bloody discharge appears, which after a few days becomes purulent. Without treatment, gonoblennorrhea is dangerous with severe complications, including total loss vision.

Chlamydial conjunctivitis of newborns is also associated with maternal urogenital infection. Infection occurs during childbirth or later when the mother does not observe personal hygiene when caring for the child. The incubation period lasts 5-10 days, then the following symptoms appear: swelling of the eyelids, severe hyperemia of the sclera, liquid purulent-bloody discharge from the eye. Predominantly one eye is affected. At timely treatment inflammation disappears after 10-15 days.

Viral

The disease develops against the background of acute respiratory viral infection, tonsillitis or runny nose. Distinctive features are lacrimation and bright hyperemia of the conjunctiva, most pronounced from the inner corners. At viral conjunctivitis First, one eye becomes inflamed, then within 2-3 days the same symptoms appear in the other.

Adenoviral conjunctivitis is more often observed in the autumn-spring period, when the child’s immunity is weakened. Transmitted by airborne droplets and contact (for example, through a shared towel) the disease can be accompanied by high body temperature. The incubation period lasts up to 7 days.

Adenoviral conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be caused by the herpes virus, in which case only one eye is usually affected. Small bubbles filled with liquid form along the edge of the eyelids, and itching appears. Conjunctival hyperemia and lacrimation are possible.

Allergic

When the mucous membrane of the eyes is irritated by allergens (pollen, animal hair, medications, household chemicals, cosmetics, etc.), allergic conjunctivitis develops, which usually has a seasonal course. The development of symptoms occurs quickly, within 15-60 minutes after the irritant enters the body. The main signs are: lacrimation, itching, redness of the whites of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids. Symptoms affect both eyes at the same time.

Purulent

Most often, purulent conjunctivitis develops when a bacterial infection enters the body. Copious purulent discharge, when dried, can form crusts in the corners of the eyes and stick together eyelashes after sleep. The disease is accompanied by itching, burning, and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. The sclera is hyperemic, the child cannot look at bright light, visual acuity decreases.

Chronic form

With absence adequate treatment the symptoms of the disease subside, but do not completely disappear, and conjunctivitis becomes chronic.

The cornea becomes cloudy, lacrimation and discomfort in the eye do not disappear. In bright light indicated symptoms are intensifying. Constant inflammation leads to deterioration of vision, the child quickly gets tired and becomes irritable.

Methods and duration of treatment at home

Usually the disease is treated at home, but for correct diagnosis and prescribing treatment, you should consult a specialist (ophthalmologist). The doctor will examine the patient, collect anamnesis and be sure to take a smear of discharge from the eye to determine the causative agent of the infection. According to the results bacteriological culture You can accurately determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to certain drugs. Symptoms of uncomplicated conjunctivitis disappear within 7 days.

Treatment includes the following steps:

  1. eye wash medicinal solution or a decoction of herbs;
  2. instilling drops or placing ointment behind the eyelid;
  3. strict adherence to hygiene - you should thoroughly wash your hands before and after medical procedures.

Before using medications and folk remedies for any form of the disease, you must rinse your eyes with any of the following solutions:

  • furatsilin solution (dissolve 1 tablet in a glass boiled water, strain through cheesecloth);
  • 0.9% sodium chloride solution;
  • chamomile decoction (pour 1 glass of boiling water over 1 filter bag, leave for 40 minutes);
  • strong brewed black tea.

You need to moisten a sterile gauze pad with the solution and wipe the eye from the outer edge to the inner. A separate wipe should be used for each eye. After this procedure, it is necessary to instill the medicine or place the ointment behind the eyelid.

Pharmacy drugs

Medicines are prescribed depending on clinical picture and the reasons that provoked the disease. Treatment of bacterial and purulent forms diseases are based on the use of antibiotics, viral - antiviral drugs If the pathology is caused by an allergic reaction, antihistamines are prescribed.

Antibacterial drops and ointments:

  • sodium sulfacyl 20% (Albucid) – instill 1 drop into each eye 4-6 times a day (we recommend reading:);
  • chloramphenicol solution 0.25% - 1 drop 4 times a day;
  • Floxal (Ofloxacin) – the drug is available in the form of ointments and drops, use 1 drop 3-4 times a day or lay a small amount of ointments for the eyelid;
  • tetracycline eye ointment 1% - put behind the eyelid twice a day.

Antiviral agents:

  • Oftalmoferon – 1 drop up to 6-8 times a day;
  • Poludan – effective for herpetic and adenoviral conjunctivitis, the drug must be diluted with distilled water according to the instructions and used 1 drop 6-8 times a day;
  • Zovirax - place a small amount of ointment behind the eyelid up to 5 times a day (the interval between applications should be at least 4 hours).

Antihistamine drops:

  • Opatanol 0.1% - 1 drop 4 times a day;
  • Azelastine – 1 drop three times a day.

Folk remedies

Conjunctivitis can be cured using folk remedies - medicinal plants and some food products. This will help remove discomfort, reduce inflammation and swelling of the eyes.

If you regularly wash your eyes with chamomile decoction, initial stage diseases can be cured without pharmaceutical drugs

Decoctions from medicinal plants, which can be used to wash the eyes or in the form of lotions:

  • Chamomile decoction – brew 1 filter bag with a glass of boiling water;
  • medium strength leaf tea decoction;
  • Rosehip decoction – 2 tsp. pour a glass of boiling water over chopped berries and leave for 40 minutes;
  • 4 bay leaves pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave for 40 minutes;
  • Kombucha infusion.

An effective folk remedy for relieving eye irritation is considered to be lotions made from grated potatoes(wrap the mass in a sterile gauze cloth and place it on the eyes), keep the compresses for 15 minutes. You can use aloe juice in the form of drops (dilute 1 ml of juice in 10 ml of distilled water), use 1 drop 3 times a day. You can use honey in a similar way (dilute in water in a ratio of 1:3). It will help to quickly get rid of herpetic conjunctivitis Kalanchoe juice– you need to lubricate the rashes on the eyelids 3-4 times a day until complete recovery.

To activate the immune system in children over 2 years of age, you can take the following mixture orally: carrot juice- 80 ml, celery and parsley juices - 10 ml each. Give your child 100 g of freshly prepared cocktail in the morning and evening.

How to cope with conjunctivitis in a newborn?

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes in newborns is a fairly common phenomenon. If purulent discharge appears, you should consult an ophthalmologist to rule out inflammation of the lacrimal sac and under-opening of the lacrimal canal. Any treatment of newborns should be carried out after the approval of a doctor, but if consultation is not possible for any reason, the use of Albucid solution (1 drop 5-6 times a day) is allowed, as well as washing the eyes with furatsilin solution or chamomile decoction, discussed above.

Features of treatment of infants

It is not recommended to treat a child on your own, especially under the age of one year - this can lead to a deterioration in health and the transition of the disease to the chronic stage. In addition to the medications prescribed by the doctor, massage of the lacrimal gland should be done to improve the outflow of pus. The massage is performed by the mother:

  • before the procedure, cut your nails short and wash your hands with soap, lubricate your index finger a little with baby cream (to improve gliding on the skin);
  • between brow ridge and the inner corner of the eye, with the pad of your finger, you need to feel the lacrimal sac (a slightly noticeable compaction) and, pressing lightly, move your finger towards the wings of the nose and back 7-10 times;
  • After the procedure, drop drops prescribed by your doctor into your eyes (we recommend reading:).
For conjunctivitis in infants, massage of the lacrimal gland is indicated in combination with the main treatment.

Preventive measures

Conjunctivitis in children is a fairly common disease in ophthalmological practice Therefore, in order to reduce the risk of developing the disease, the following rules must be followed:

  1. teach your child to wash their hands with soap after walking, going to the toilet and before eating;
  2. do not touch your face and eyes with dirty hands, do not use other people’s towels at home, kindergarten etc.;
  3. if the child has a tendency to allergic reactions minimize contact with potential allergens (dust, pollen, pet hair, etc.);
  4. keep the apartment clean;
  5. strengthen immune system child with the help of hardening and health procedures;
  6. try to avoid contact with infectious patients, treat chronic diseases in a timely manner.

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Children aged 5-7 years are different high activity, lead a rich social life, however, still cannot strictly follow the established order.

Deviations from sanitary and hygienic rules, the habit of touching your face, rubbing your eyes - all this creates preconditions for the occurrence of conjunctivitis.

The disease requires proper treatment, V otherwise inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes may become chronic. One of serious consequences This is a deterioration in vision.

Symptoms of the disease in a child

Children at this age are able to verbally describe their sensations, which is largely facilitates diagnosis.

When conjunctivitis occurs, the child complains of itching, burning or pain in the eyes, he may have the feeling that “a speck has got into them.” In some cases, the patient sees objects blurred, squints against light.

Signs of the disease include:

  • redness of the mucous membrane or inner surface of the eyelids;
  • swelling of the eyes;
  • lacrimation;
  • secretions that accumulate in inner corners eye;
  • clots on eyelashes;
  • sticking of the eyes after sleep.

Reference. As additional symptoms observed lethargy, apathy, fever, lack of appetite, sleep disturbances.

Types of conjunctivitis

For successful treatment It is important to identify exactly what form of the disease arose in the child. IN age groupfrom 5 to 7 years diagnosed bacterial, viral or allergic conjunctivitis.

At bacterial form the patient has purulent or mucous discharge from one or both eyes. They accumulate in the nasolacrimal duct, and with their abundance, the eyelids become stuck together after sleep.

Bacterial conjunctivitis usually occurs in one eye and subsequently spreads to the other eye.

At viral conjunctivitis the patient has typical manifestations viral disease: runny nose, symptoms of pharyngitis, fever, weakness, drowsiness, etc.

Usually this form sickness affects both eyes straightaway. In case of joining viral infection bacterial, discharge occurs.

Allergic form - a consequence of allergies, accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose, swelling, skin rashes, bronchospasms, etc. Eye damage may affect local areas mucous membrane.

Causes

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by:

  • infection in the mucous membrane of the eye;
  • facial injuries;
  • ENT diseases with the formation of pus: sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, etc.

The disease is spreading quickly in children's groups due to the fact that in the absence clinical manifestations sick people are difficult to identify and continue to visit educational institution.

Important! Children who do not have symptoms of conjunctivitis, but are V incubation period , are also sources of infection for others.

Viral conjunctivitis occurs due to damage to the body corresponding pathogen: influenza, ARVI, enterovirus, adenovirus, chicken pox, measles, etc.

Allergic disease develops due to contact with a specific allergen.

This may include food products, products household chemicals, pets, dust, chemical substances, plant pollen and much more.

Common factors contributing to the onset of the disease include:

  • reduced immunity;
  • hot, dry air in the room where children are;
  • too bright light;
  • insufficient hand hygiene;
  • habit of touching eyes, face;
  • deviations from the daily routine;
  • errors in nutrition.

How to treat inflammation

There are several ways to treat conjunctivitis, which better to use in combination to achieve greater efficiency

Washing

For the treatment of conjunctivitis bacterial and viral Character used eye washes furatsilin solution, chamomile infusion, strong brewed black tea.

At allergic conjunctivitis rinsing do no need.

Furacilin solution is prepared at the rate 1 tablet per 100 ml boiled water at room temperature. To infuse chamomile, it is better to take a filter bag and pour a glass of boiling water over it, let it brew within 15 minutes, then cool.

Tea is being prepared in the usual way: For 1 tablespoon of tea leaves, take half a liter of boiling water.

Washing is done as follows:

  1. a sterile napkin or clean cotton pad is moistened in the prepared solution;
  2. the eye is rubbed from the temple to the inner edge - it is advisable to perform the movement once, trying to immediately remove the discharge from the eye;
  3. The same napkin cannot be reused; a clean piece is taken for the second eye.

You can wash your eyes in the first days of illness through every 2 hours. In the future it is enough to do this 3-4 times a day. Store the composition at room temperature no more than 8 hours.

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Massage

One of the methods that speeds up the treatment of conjunctivitis is massage of the nasolacrimal duct area. This procedure allows you to quickly remove secretions in the bacterial form of the disease, as well as in the case of viral conjunctivitis with associated bacterial infection.

Photo 1. Scheme of performing a massage of the nasolacrimal duct in a child. Stroking should be done in the direction of the arrows.

Children 5—7 years they tolerate this procedure well. It is carried out and immediately after washing the eyes.

Attention! Mom or another adult acting as a massage therapist, you should take care of the condition of your hands. No long manicure is allowed due to the risk of injuring the child’s skin. Wash your hands, dry them and treat them with an antiseptic, for example, Miramistin.

The essence of the procedure is to apply pinpoint pressure to the area located near the nasolacrimal duct, just above the characteristic tubercle. It should be pressed carefully within one to two minutes. In this case, pus may come out of the eye; it should be removed with a sterile cloth soaked in a furatsilin solution. Carrying out the procedure up to 5 times a day. After the massage, the appropriate medication should be dropped into the eyes.

Medicines for conjunctivitis

Application drug effects- an indispensable point in the successful treatment of conjunctivitis.

Drops and ointments for eyes with antibiotic or antiviral action prescribed for bacterial and viral forms of the disease.

At allergic conjunctivitis fixed assets - antihistamines and avoiding contact with allergens.

Drops

At bacterial conjunctivitis are used the following medications:

  • chloramphenicol drops;
  • Tobrex;
  • Fucithalmic;
  • Phloxal.

By 1-2 drops medicine drop into eyes after rinsing and massage from 2 to 4 times a day. Use the drug until the signs of the disease disappear and after that two more days.

For viral conjunctivitis the following are used:

  • Aktipol;
  • Trifluridine;
  • Poludan;
  • Interferon alpha-2.

A drop of the prescribed product is dropped into the eyes 8 times a day in the first days of illness, then 3-4 times before complete cure.

Reference. The drug is universally suitable for all forms of conjunctivitis Albucid. He rinses the eye, removing pathogenic flora, viruses and allergens, disinfects and moisturizes the mucous membrane.

Ointments

At bacterial species pathologies in children 5-7 years old is used erythromycin, chloramphenicol, ofloxacin ointments, Tobrex, Eubetal.

Photo 2. Packaging and tube of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment with a dosage of 10 thousand units/g, weighing 10 g. Manufacturer: Sintez.

With a viral oxolinic, Zovirax, Acyclovir, Bonafton. The amount of the drug is approximately 0.2 g(about the size of a small pea) is placed under the child’s lower eyelid 2-3 times a day until complete recovery.

Features of therapy in children 5, 6, 7 years old

Treatment of conjunctivitis in children in the age group 5-7 years is carried out according to the above schemes. The bulk of drugs approved for use by patients 5, 6 and 7 years old.