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Baby Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions in babies. Sticky, red eyes are often the first scare for new parents — but in most cases it heals well and quickly. It's important to identify the cause: a blocked tear duct in newborns is very different from a bacterial infection at daycare.

الأسباب المحتملة

1Blocked tear duct (most common cause in newborns — up to 20% affected)
2Bacterial infection (purulent, yellow-green discharge, often starts in one eye)
3Viral infection (watery discharge, often alongside a cold)
4Allergic reaction (both eyes affected, itchy, seasonal — rare in babies)
5Irritation from foreign body, chlorine, or dry air

ما يمكنكِ فعله

Gently clean sticky eyes with boiled (cooled) water and sterile gauze — always wipe from outer to inner corner
For blocked tear duct: tear sac massage (gentle pressure beside the bridge of the nose, 5-10x daily)
Bacterial: antibiotic eye drops/ointment from paediatrician (e.g., gentamicin)
Drop breast milk into the eye — contains antibodies and is a proven home remedy for mild cases
Wash hands thoroughly before and after eye care to prevent spreading

متى تزورين الطبيب؟

Severe swelling of eyelids or redness around the eye (possible orbital cellulitis)
Baby won't open the eye or shows light sensitivity
Purulent discharge in newborn under 4 weeks → see doctor IMMEDIATELY (rule out gonococcal infection)
Eye inflammation after birth within the first 48 hours
No improvement after 3 days of antibiotic treatment
Fever along with the eye inflammation

ملاحظات حسب العمر

Newborns (0-4 weeks): Any eye inflammation must be medically evaluated — chlamydia and gonococcal infections during birth are possible. Infants (1-6 months): Blocked tear duct very common, usually resolves on its own by 12 months. Babies (6-12 months): Infectious conjunctivitis more common through contact with other children. Daycare children: Highly contagious — child stays home until discharge has cleared.

الأسئلة الشائعة

Can I put breast milk in my baby's eye?

Yes, breast milk contains antibodies (IgA) and has mild antibacterial properties. For mild cases, a drop of fresh breast milk in the affected eye can help. However, it does NOT replace a doctor's visit for heavy discharge or newborns.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS. Hand washing is essential. Don't share towels, washcloths, or pillows. Blocked tear ducts and allergic forms are NOT contagious.

When does a blocked tear duct need surgery?

In the vast majority of cases: it doesn't. 90% of blocked tear ducts resolve on their own by 12 months. If it hasn't improved by then, an ophthalmologist can probe the duct — a brief procedure under light sedation.