Babies are adorable, but if your baby wakes up with pink eye, it can be a bit tricky to handle. Pink eye or conjunctivitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the white part of the eyes and sometimes, redness or swelling of the eyelids. Well, parents, fret no more! In this article, we will provide you quick tips and remedies on how to deal with your baby's pink eye.
What Causes Pink Eye?
Before knowing how to remedy pink eye for babies, let us first understand what causes it. One common culprit for infecting infants and adults alike is bacteria - specifically staphylococci or streptococci. A virus may also encounter irritation from airborne allergens such as dust mites, smoke particles or pollen grains particularly those originating from flowers like roses lavender etc., aggressively rubbing infected hands across one person’s eyes after exposure as well!
Symptoms of Pink Eye
If you suspect that your baby has pink eye because they're itching their eyes frequently when awake/or there are frequent tears coming out even though nothing sad was happening while watching Bubble Guppies on TV- then take note of some tell-tale signs such as:
- Redness
- Discharge (pus-like)
- Crusty build-up around their eyelashes
- Swelling
- Tearing
Symptoms typically last for 3-7 days depending upon duration of bacterial/viral infections accompanied by irritants causing viral/allergic reactions; however there are many treatments available!
When To Call A Doctor
It’s always better safe than sorry – so play it cautious by seeking medical assistance if not sure what steps should be taken next! Trust me… You don’t want to mess around when it comes down dealing with your little one's sightless future especially given the obvious costs associated with eye diseases!
Home Remedies For Baby's Pink Eye
Think you caught eye conjunctivitis? It is vital to ensure proper hygienic measures followed strictly when treating this evolving infectious disease. Here are some home remedies for curing baby’s pink eye that parents may employ; since not every child is eligible due to different sensitivities of skin, allergies or even neediness from all out medical attention be it as a prevention mechanism rather than reacting once the affected person has contacted with virus/bacteria/infection.
Salt Water
Make saline by dissolving 1 teaspoon table salt (iodized OR non-iodized means) in 8 oz warm water don't forget to verify temperature against your wrist first! Letting the solution cool down helps avoid potential burning and irritation when applied onto baby’s infected eyes via sterilized dropper attached directly on bottle container surface. This cleaning agent should get rid of viruses/bacterias causing inflammation so there's no harm in trying unless your kid allergic!
Breast Milk
Breast milk does more than nourish – studies have shown that it contains natural antibodies such as Immunoglobulin A which help fight off infections early! Simply use a pipette/dropper etc and squirt breastmilk into each eye twice daily until symptoms subordinate.
Turmeric & Pure Honey
Two items likely found in most people's pantry can make fantastic anti-inflammatory combination - turmeric along with pure honey makes an excellent solution! Mix both antiseptic agents(one tablespoon of each), dip clean cotton ball into mix then carefully apply over closed eyelids three times day until necessary whist protecting carpet piece if leaving uncapped near cutting board below welcome mat just in case flying ticks looking hygiene break haiku mercy show up unannounced - this stuff works well at reducing symptom intensity but still try consulting physician prior using any alternative treatments like combinations i.e one part vinegar another part water etc
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera extract contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that soothe redness as well, along with reducing irritation to the eyes. You may either use an aloe gel for ease or extract directly from fresh leaves of plant after washing them thoroughly. Cut leaf into small parts, take out pulp using spoon remove green outer surface layer purée in food processor until reaching liquid consistency then drain concoction excess lysate - Use sterile cloth/tiny cotton pads/balls dipped inside several times throughout day increasing frequency based on its effectiveness/skin sensitivities.
Breast Milk & Honey Compress
If single remedies are not doing much dent or if your toddler seems too fussy before sleeping time; new combo packs certainly worth checking! Take one tablespoon honey, mix it with 2 tablespoons breast milk so you have thick paste soaked up onto washed towel/sterile pads around eyes lenses held firmly down aging tissue paper strips wrapping everything together like a present till both parents get satisfied enough about healing process taking place versus probing asleep baby tactfully avoiding any sounds/loud steps!
How To Prevent Pink Eye In Babies?
An ounce of prevention is better than cure – follow these tips below to decrease the possibility of your baby getting conjunctivitis:
- Wash Your Hands Thoroughly After Every Fight
- Clean Baby’s Diapering Area Perspicaciously
- Change Bed Linens Regularly
- Don’t Share Stuffed Animals Or Pillows Without Washing First
- Keep The House Smoke-Free
- Be Mindful Of Airborne Allergens
Keep In Mind That Prevention Takes More Effort Than Treatment So Stay Alert And Consistent!
Final Thoughts
Dealing with pink eye can be very frustrating for any parent however there are many quick fixes available at home which reduce symptoms while representing fast relief regardless different skin sensitivity levels noted amongst infants/toddlers - always consult with your physician to be sure! Employing home remedies for pink eye is just a temporary treatment and you should seek medical attention if prolonged symptoms occur –if not preventable better clarity about all steps taken beforehand thru careful research or consultation. Stay safe, healthy and happy parenting!