Pink eye is a common eye condition that occurs in more than three million people in the U.S alone every year. Although highly contagious, this condition is treatable and does not have a lasting impact on an eye.
The only inconvenience is that pink eye generally takes two weeks or more to heal, and being extremely contagious, it may pass through the family. It is particularly upsetting when children develop this condition, especially when they have to miss school because of it.
AFC Urgent Care Paramus is able to diagnose and treat your child’s pink eye. Don’t wait for an appointment with their pediatrician or spend hours in the emergency room. Visit our walk-in center for illness treatment today.
Tips When your Child has Pink Eye
Skip school till the Pink Eye lasts
When children develop pink eye, parents have to keep them home from school. It can be difficult to keep the younger ones from touching their eyes repeatedly since pink eye is a contagious eye infection.
Moreover, when the child shares school equipment with classmates, the infection will likely pass on. Schools generally notify parents immediately if they see students showing symptoms of an eye infection. Once a child has taken the necessary treatment, he/she can return to school.
Visit the Doctor
Parents must take the child to the doctor as soon as symptoms appear. The doctor will determine whether it is a case of allergies or pink eye. Allergies typically affect both eyes, while the pink eye infection begins in one and spreads to the other.
Moreover, there are several types of pink eye infections, and only a board-certified professional can determine the best treatment for each. Visit our walk-in center today.
Wash Hands Regularly
It is important to explain to the children the importance of washing their hands frequently. The pink eye infection and pathogens can spread quickly. However, making the child wash his/her hands regularly and avoid touching their face and eyes can help contain the infection.
Wash the Child’s Belongings Regularly
You must wash the sheets, pillowcases, towels, and other belongings of your child regularly to prevent others in the household from getting the infection. It’s important to wash whatever your child uses daily until their infection lasts.
You must also stop them from sharing items with other family members for added protection. Meanwhile, a warm compress is a good way to provide relief for your child’s eye.
Clean Their Glasses
If your child wears glasses, you must clean those and the case regularly as well to protect them from developing the infection. This practice will also prevent them from getting the infection again.
Final Thoughts
Pink eye is a highly contagious eye infection. Although easily treatable, the infection can last for two weeks or more. During this period, it is important to take preventive measures and maintain strict hygiene practices to protect people from catching the infection.
