There are three main causes of conjunctivitis; bacterial, viral and allergic.
Viral: If your child has cold symptoms as well as conjunctivitis then it is likely that the infection is viral. Viruses are the most common cause of conjunctivitis.
Bacterial: If your child’s eyes are producing a sticky, yellow discharge that is causing them to stick together than it is likely bacterial. The most common bacteria are staphylococcus and streptococcus.
Allergic: If your child’s eyes seem to be itchy, intermittently red, and have a watery discharge then it is most likely allergic conjunctivitis. This can be triggered by several different allergies including; allergies to dust mites, pollen and mould allergies and animal allergies.
The cause of conjunctivitis is extremely important as the type of treatment prescribed depends on it.
Learn more about the diagnosing conjunctivitis.
