Services / Paediatric Ophthalmology
Understanding red, irritated and sticky eyes
Conjunctivitis in Children – Causes and When to Worry
Red, gunky eyes are one of the most common reasons children are kept home from daycare or school. Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and self-limiting, but knowing the different types helps you manage it — and know when to seek review.
At a glance
What parents should know
- Viral, bacterial and allergic causes need different care
- Pain, light sensitivity or blurred vision are warning signs
- Newborn symptoms or spreading swelling need prompt review
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. It causes redness, irritation and often discharge. There are three main causes in children.
Viral conjunctivitis
The most common type, often accompanying a cold. Features include watery discharge, redness, and sometimes swollen eyelids. It’s highly contagious and typically resolves on its own over one to two weeks. Treatment is largely supportive — cool compresses and good hygiene — as antibiotics don’t help viral infections.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Tends to cause thicker, yellow or green discharge, often with eyelids stuck together after sleep. It’s also contagious and usually improves with antibiotic eye drops or ointment prescribed by a doctor, along with regular cleaning of the eyelids.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Common in children with hay fever, eczema or asthma. Causes itching (often the most prominent symptom), watering, and redness in both eyes, frequently worse in spring or around known triggers like pollen or pets. Treatment includes avoiding triggers where possible, cool compresses, and antihistamine or anti-allergy eye drops.
Telling them apart
| Feature | Viral | Bacterial | Allergic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discharge | Watery | Thick, yellow/green | Watery, stringy |
| Itch | Mild | Mild | Prominent |
| Eyes affected | Often one, then both | Often one, then both | Usually both |
| Contagious | Yes | Yes | No |
Yes Yes No
Caring for your child at home
- Wash hands frequently and avoid sharing towels or pillows to limit spread
- Wipe discharge gently with a clean, damp cotton pad, from the inner to outer corner, using a fresh pad for each eye
- Keep your child home from school or daycare until discharge has settled, per your school’s policy
When to see a doctor promptly
- Significant pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision (rather than just discharge)
- Swelling and redness spreading to the eyelid or around the eye
- Symptoms in a newborn under 4 weeks old
- No improvement after several days, or symptoms that worsen
Most conjunctivitis is straightforward, but if you’re ever unsure or your child seems more unwell than “just a red eye,” the team at Bright Sight Eye Specialists can help clarify what’s going on.
Specialist children’s eye care
Concerned about your child’s eyes?
Dr Kriti Agnihotri provides family-centred paediatric ophthalmology care at Bright Sight Eye Specialists in Randwick.
The key message
Early, appropriate assessment supports better outcomes
Most conjunctivitis is mild, but significant pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision or swelling around the eye should never be treated as routine “pink eye”.
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Related children’s eye guides
Book a paediatric eye consultation
For specialist children’s eye care in Randwick, contact Bright Sight Eye Specialists to arrange an appointment.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.