Observing redness in a baby’s eye can be concerning for parents. While many causes are treatable and temporary, understanding potential reasons helps determine appropriate next steps and when to seek medical guidance.
Common Reasons for a Red Eye
A frequent cause of red eye is conjunctivitis, or pinkeye, an inflammation of the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. Viral conjunctivitis often causes watery discharge and cold symptoms, typically resolving within one to two weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis has sticky, yellow or green discharge, affecting one or both eyes, and often needs medical treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis, less common in infants, may cause watery, itchy eyes, sometimes with sneezing or a runny nose.
Another common condition is a blocked tear duct, where the drainage system from the eye to the nose is obstructed. This blockage can lead to watery eyes, tears running down the face, and a gooey or crusty buildup on the eyelashes. While usually not serious, a blocked tear duct can increase the risk of infection. Occasionally, a foreign object like dust or lint, or even a minor scratch, can irritate the eye, causing temporary redness. Such irritation often resolves once the foreign material is removed or the minor injury heals.
A subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a bright red spot on the white of the eye due to a broken blood vessel. This can occur from pressure changes during childbirth, straining, coughing, or rubbing the eye. Though it may look concerning, this condition is usually harmless, causes no pain, and typically clears on its own within days or weeks as the blood reabsorbs, similar to a bruise fading.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Certain symptoms accompanying a baby’s red eye indicate a need for prompt medical evaluation. If redness is accompanied by a fever, this warrants immediate attention. Swelling around the eyelid, particularly if significant or tender, is another important sign. Pus-like or excessive discharge, especially if thick, yellow, or green, suggests a potential bacterial infection requiring a doctor’s assessment.
Sensitivity to light (photophobia), where the baby turns away from bright light or squints, can indicate a more serious issue. Any noticeable changes in the baby’s vision, such as difficulty tracking objects or unusual eye movements, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Pain or increased fussiness when the eye is touched can indicate discomfort.
If redness follows a known injury or trauma, medical consultation is important to rule out significant damage. If the redness worsens over a day or two, or does not show improvement with home care, seeking professional advice is recommended. For newborns, any redness in or around the eye should be addressed promptly by a pediatrician, as newborn conjunctivitis can be serious.
Immediate Steps and Home Care
For minor eye irritation or discharge, gentle cleaning provides comfort and prevents buildup. Use a warm, damp, clean cloth or cotton ball to wipe away discharge from the inner corner of the eye outwards. If both eyes are affected, use a separate cloth or cotton ball for each eye to prevent infection spread. Applying a warm compress for five to ten minutes soothes discomfort and helps soften any crusts, making them easier to remove.
Maintaining good hand hygiene is essential when caring for a baby with a red eye, especially if an infection is suspected. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching the baby’s eyes minimizes the risk of spreading germs. Discourage the baby from rubbing or touching their eye, as this can worsen irritation or spread infection. Keeping the baby comfortable and well-rested supports their overall well-being. Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter eye drops or previously opened medications, as these might contain ingredients unsuitable for infants or could introduce further contamination.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
When a medical professional examines a baby with a red eye, the process involves thorough observation of the eye’s appearance, including the color of the white part, the presence and type of any discharge, and whether there is swelling or sensitivity to light. They also inquire about the onset of symptoms, any associated signs like fever, and the baby’s general behavior. This detailed history and physical examination help determine the likely cause of the redness.
If an infection is suspected, the doctor might take a swab of the eye discharge for laboratory analysis. This test helps identify the specific bacteria or virus causing the infection, guiding the selection of the most effective treatment. For bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops or ointment are commonly prescribed to eliminate the infection. Viral conjunctivitis typically does not require antibiotic treatment and often resolves on its own, with supportive care focusing on symptom management.
For blocked tear ducts, a gentle massage technique applied to the area between the eye and the nose helps open the duct. In cases of subconjunctival hemorrhage, observation is usually the primary approach, as the condition typically resolves without intervention.