Interestingly, over time, the color of the eyes of a child may change. This is natural and should not be alarming. But if redness appears, then something is wrong. Red eyes in children of any age - this is definitely a sign of the disease. Therefore, in such a situation, you should definitely consult a doctor. It is possible that this pathology is a signal of a serious disease
Why does the child have red eyes?
Most often, the answer is simple - conjunctivitis. The human eye is covered with a special transparent shell, which secretes tear fluid for wetting and lubricating the eyeball. In addition, a tear has antibacterial properties due to the presence of special bacteria-destroying substances in it (these include immunoglobulins, beta-lysine, complement and others). The conjunctiva protects the eye; it is a natural barrier against germs, dust, and damage. But this barrier can also be destroyed.
The causes of inflammation are various. Bacteria (staphylococci, diphtheria bacillus, pneumococci) and viruses (including influenza, measles, herpes simplex, adenovirus) most often lead to this disease. Separately, conjunctivitis caused by chlamydia and fungi is isolated. In recent years, due to environmental degradation and changes in immunity, allergic conjunctivitis that has arisen from exposure to pollen, industrial dust, chemicals and even cosmetics has become very common.
Red eyes in children is not the only sign of conjunctivitis. Unlike adults, the baby will lose sleep and appetite, become moody and whining, will constantly rub his eyes with handles. In the mornings, it is difficult for the child to “open” the eyelids, since they are “glued” with yellowish dry crusts. In especially severe cases, increased lacrimation will be replaced by the release of pus. But in a newborn, the lacrimal apparatus is still poorly formed, and from the eyes with conjunctivitis there may be discharge of any color and consistency. The sick eye does not see well, and older children may complain of "sand in the eyes" or the fact that all objects look blurry. To verify the presence of inflammation, it is enough to pull the lower eyelid, and it becomes visible strong redness and pronounced edema of the conjunctiva. But still! Why the red eyes of a child should be determined by an ophthalmologist. Serious medical attention may be required. Or long-term treatment.
Red eyes in children are not only a sign of conjunctivitis. It is possible the cause of this was an injury or a foreign body. In any case, contact your ophthalmologist. Any inflammation of the eye is a threat not only to vision, but also to human life. Since the infection can easily spread to the brain, lungs, blood, and the result will be sad.
To the doctor!
What to do if you find a symptom such as red eyes in children. First of all, limit his communication with others, since conjunctivitis is contagious. In no case do not apply any bandages, do not warm your eyes and do not self-medicate. Do not be afraid of a visit to the doctor. The treatment of conjunctivitis is painless and exclusively medication - rinsing with solutions of furatsilin, chamomile, various drops, including anti-allergic ones.
The red vessels of the eyes in a child are a cause for concern and early seeking medical attention. Do not try to treat the baby yourself, do not use folk remedies, but call a doctor!