Pinkeye (or conjunctivitis) is inflammation of the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It can be caused by allergies, irritating substances, or infection from a virus or bacteria . Some kinds of pinkeye go away on their own, but others need treatment with antibiotics. When pinkeye is caused by an infection, it can be spread easily from person to person. Signs and Symptoms discomfort or feeling like something is in the eye redness of the eye and inner eyelid watery or pus-like liquid seeping from the eye lashes matted or stuck together upon waking up itchiness and tearing (common with allergic pinkeye) What to Do Call your doctor, particularly for a newborn. If it looks like a bacterial infection, treatment may include antibiotic drops or ointment. Carefully clean the eye area with warm water and gauze or cotton balls. Gently put cool compresses on the eye. If your doctor suggests it, give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort (check label instructions for the correct amount). Don't give ibuprofen to an infant younger than 6 months old. Get Medical Care if Your Child: shows no improvement in 2 or 3 days if treated, or a week if untreated has eye redness that gets worse has increasing swelling of the eyelids complains of severe pain has any change in vision also has ear pain (pinkeye and ear infections can happen at the same time) Think Prevention! Wash hands well and often, especially after touching eyes. Don't share eye ointment, washcloths, towels, and pillowcases. Talk to your doctor if itchy, watery, or red eyes are a frequent problem — allergies might be the cause. If some household things seem to irritate the eyes, try: dusting and vacuuming often closing windows and doors when pollen is heavy keeping scented or irritating chemicals (like household cleaners) to a minimum avoiding secondhand smoke Back to Articles Related Articles Pinkeye Pinkeye is the most common eye problem kids can have. It causes redness, itching, inflammation, and pus to collect in the eyes. Read More Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Conjunctivitis, commonly called pinkeye, is an inflammation of the tissue covering the eye and inner surface of the eyelid. Read More Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, is the most common eye infection affecting kids. Learn more about pinkeye and how to prevent it from spreading. Read More Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever) At various times of the year, pollen and mold spores trigger the cold-like symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. Most kids find relief through reduced exposure to allergens or with medicines. Read More Taking Care of Your Vision Even if you're lucky enough to have perfect vision, taking care of and protecting your eyes is vital to keeping your peepers perfect. Learn all about how to take care of your baby blues (or browns or greens) in this article. Read More Why Do Eyes Water? What does it mean when your eyes water? It's not the same as crying - or is it? Read More First Aid: Allergic Reactions Although most allergic reactions aren't serious, severe reactions can be life-threatening and can require immediate medical attention. Read More Eyes The eyes are small compared with most of the body's other organs, but their structure is incredibly complex. Learn more about eyes, vision, and common problems with both. Read More Eyes Although your eyes are small, their structure is incredibly complex. Find out how they work in this body basics article. Read More Movie: Eyes Chloe and the Nurb take you on a tour of the eyes and how seeing happens. Watch this How the Body Works movie! Read More Your Child's Vision It's important for kids to have their eyes examined regularly, as many vision problems and eye diseases can be detected and treated early. Read More Your Eyes Ever wonder how your eyes work? This article for kids takes you from the pupil to the retina and beyond. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.