Apollo, commonly used to refer to conjunctivitis or pink eye, can cause redness, discharge and swelling around a baby’s eyes. Similar symptoms can also occur due to a blocked tear duct or other conditions. Treatment depends on the cause, and newborns with eye redness or discharge need prompt medical assessment.
Here is what to know about Apollo eye infection and treatments for babies to clear it up.
Pink eye or redness is one of the most common signs you might notice in your child. Sometimes, babies and newborns get pink eye during or right after they have an ear or throat infection. A runny nose or sneezing may also followed with pink eye.
Other early signs your baby might face include:
Newborns can have Apollo eye infection symptoms as early as a few days after birth. Or they might pop up at any stage in their first four weeks.
Apollo may cause different symptoms in each child, including:
Newborns, older babies, and toddlers can get Apollo eye infections for different reasons. Newborns can get Apollo from:
If your newborn suffers from an eye infection, it might get serious if it doesn’t get timely treatment. Some bacterial and viral infections that cause Apollo in newborns include:
Older babies and toddlers can get Apollo from rubbing irritants or allergic reactions. A seasonal allergy to pollen or a year-round allergy to animal fur and dust might be the reason.
Pink eye resulting from a viral infection typically resolves within 1 to 2 weeks. Conversely, pink eye triggered by irritation typically subsides rapidly, often within a few days.
Viral-induced pinkeye typically resolves on its own without needing treatment, while bacterial-induced pinkeye requires the application of antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
To administer eye drops to children, which can be challenging, consider placing the drops on the inner corner of the closed eye. When the child opens their eyes, the medicine will naturally flow. If using drops proves difficult, consult your doctor about antibiotic ointment. This ointment can be applied in a thin layer where the eyelids meet, melting and entering the eye.
Your doctor may prescribe anti-allergy medication such as pills, liquid, or eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis in children.
Apollo eye disease is contagious and can quickly spread from one eye to another and other people also. To prevent the eye infection from spreading, follow the below instructions:
Wash your hands frequently, using warm water and soap, before touching your baby if they have symptoms of Apollo.
Stop your baby from touching or rubbing their eyes or face; it might be challenging, but it is important.
If your infant is experiencing pink eye, consider reapplying mittens to provide relief. For older babies and toddlers, use toys or screen time as distractions, and don’t hesitate to allow extra TV time on recovery days.
While specific home remedies can alleviate discomfort in your child’s eyes and manage symptoms, it’s essential to note that they cannot cure pink eye.
To help eliminate crusting and fluid and potentially clear a blocked tear duct, cleanse your baby’s or toddler’s eyes with the following steps:
If your baby experiences pink eye more than once, check household items such as laundry detergent, baby shampoo, soap, and cleaning supplies, as certain chemicals may cause sensitivity or reactions leading to pink eye. Opt for natural cleansers, baby-friendly soaps, and unbleached cotton or natural fabric clothing for your baby.
It’s crucial to refrain from using eye drops on a baby or toddler. If you are using any, it is best to consult an eye doctor first.
Mention prompt assessment for newborn eye redness/discharge, and urgent care for fever, significant swelling, severe pain, light sensitivity or changes in the eye/vision. Don’t encourage parents to self-medicate babies with eye drops.
Apollo eye infections in babies are common but can be severe in some cases. Thus, treatment is needed to get rid of it. Sometimes, an infection can be spread from you to your baby, and you both need to take precautions and get treatment.
Pink eye in older babies is mild and can resolve independently in 1 or 2 weeks without treatment. Chemical irritation, infections, allergies, colds, and flu cases can cause it.
Always consult your doctor if your baby has an eye infection. It is best to be safe.
Common symptoms include red eyes, watery eyes, swollen eyelids, discharge, and crusting around the eyes.
A doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops for bacterial infections. The right treatment depends on the child’s condition.
There is no single best eye drop for every child. Consult a healthcare professional before choosing medication.
Gently wipe away discharge with a clean, damp cotton pad. Wash your hands first and use a fresh pad for each eye.
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