Red, gooey eyes that are glued shut in the morning can look alarming on a small baby. Conjunctivitis in babies, inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye, is common and usually mild. But in newborns, and with certain warning signs, it needs prompt medical care. Here is how to recognise the different types and care for your baby’s eyes.
Quick answer: conjunctivitis in babies
- Signs: pink or red eye, watery or sticky discharge, crusty lashes, puffy eyelids.
- Most often caused by viruses or bacteria; less often by allergy or irritants.
- Clean the eyes with cooled boiled water from the inner corner outwards.
- Babies under 28 days with conjunctivitis need to see a doctor the same day.
Types and causes
- Viral: watery discharge, often with a cold; clears in 7 to 14 days.
- Bacterial: thick yellow or green discharge; often improves faster with antibiotic drops or ointment.
- Newborn (ophthalmia neonatorum): in the first month, can be caused by infections passed on at birth and needs urgent treatment.
- Allergic or irritant: itchy, watery eyes, often both sides, without thick discharge.
How to clean your baby’s eyes
- Wash your hands before and after.
- Boil water and let it cool.
- Dip cotton wool and wipe from the inner corner outwards.
- Use a fresh piece for each wipe and each eye.
- Keep your baby’s towels and flannels separate.
See cleaning baby’s ears, eyes and nails.
Treatment
Many cases clear on their own with cleaning. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops or ointment for bacterial conjunctivitis or for newborns. Use them exactly as directed and finish the course.
Conjunctivitis or a blocked tear duct?
A blocked tear duct causes watery, sticky eyes but the white of the eye stays white. See blocked tear duct in babies and pink eye in babies.
When to talk to your doctor
- any red or sticky eye in a baby under 28 days
- swelling and redness of the eyelids and the skin around the eye: seek urgent help
- your baby seems in pain, is sensitive to light or the eye looks cloudy
- fever, or your baby seems unwell
- no improvement after 7 days, or symptoms getting worse
Frequently asked questions
Is conjunctivitis contagious?
Viral and bacterial types are. Wash hands and avoid sharing towels.
Can it affect vision?
Common conjunctivitis does not harm vision. Seek help for pain, light sensitivity or vision changes.
Can I use adult eye drops?
No, only use drops prescribed or recommended for your baby.
Sources
- NHS: Conjunctivitis
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: Conjunctivitis in children
- NICE CKS: Conjunctivitis, infective
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you are worried about your baby’s eyes, talk to your doctor.