Allergic conjunctivitis in children: what parents should look out for
Children often blink a lot and rub their eyes, which can easily be mistaken for a bad habit.
Common signs
- Frequent eye rubbing and blinking, with red eyes
- The skin of the eyelids becomes rough and darker in colour from long-term rubbing
- Often accompanied by an itchy nose, sneezing, a blocked nose or a night-time cough
- Seasonal, or worse after contact with soft toys or pets
What parents can do
Keep your child's nails short to reduce damage from eye rubbing; use cold compresses and artificial tears to ease discomfort; use eye medicines as prescribed by the doctor, and pay attention to technique and hygiene when putting in eye drops; reduce indoor house dust mite and allergen exposure, and take protective measures when going out during pollen season.
When to see a doctor
If symptoms keep coming back and affect study and sleep, or if there is eye pain, sensitivity to light, a change in vision or pus-like discharge, see an eye doctor as soon as possible. If your child also has rhinitis or asthma, it is advisable to have these assessed together; managing them as a whole often works better.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.