If your child wakes up with a red, swollen, or crusty eye, you may be wondering what to do next. Is this something you can treat at home? Do you need to see a pediatrician and if so, how soon?
Here’s what you need to know about seeking care for pink eye in Rockville, MD at POP Now.
What Does Pink Eye Look Like in Children?
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is very common in children and can be caused by many different things. While some cases are mild and improve with supportive care, others need evaluation and treatment.
If your child has symptoms that are bothering them, or if you aren’t completely sure what’s going on, scheduling an appointment at POP Now is a practical option.
Pink eye is one of those conditions that has very noticeable symptoms. It causes the white part of the eye to look pink or red, along with:
- Irritation
- Watery eyes
- Swelling
- Discharge
Some children complain that their eyes feel gritty, itchy, or uncomfortable. They may also wake up with their eyelashes stuck together with dried discharge.
Pink eye is highly contagious and can spread fast. So if you think your child may be infected, you’ll want to come to POP Now sooner rather than later.
What Happens During a Visit for Pink Eye in Rockville, MD?
Most appointments are quick. First, we’ll examine your child’s eye and ask questions about when symptoms started and whether there are other symptoms.
Based on your child’s age and the severity of their symptoms, we’ll determine which treatment is best.
Our goal is never to label the issue as pink eye without a thorough examination. We’ll figure out what’s causing the irritation and determine the best treatment option.
What Treatments Are Available?
Treatment for pink eye depends on the underlying cause.
Viral pink eye usually clears on its own, while bacterial cases may require antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Symptoms usually improve within two to three days after starting treatment.
You can keep your child comfortable at home by:
- Applying a cool or warm compress over the affected eye
- Gently cleaning discharge
- Reminding your child not to rub their eyes
- Encourage frequent handwashing
If symptoms worsen, aren’t improving, or your child experiences eye pain, severe redness, or vision changes, you’ll want to see a healthcare provider immediately.
Is Waiting It Out at Home an Option?
Not all cases of pink eye require an emergency trip to the doctor. But, if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or causing significant discomfort, you’ll want to seek care sooner rather than later.
You also don’t want to assume that all eye redness is caused by pink eye. An evaluation at a pediatric urgent care clinic can give you a clearer idea of what’s happening to determine what your child actually needs.
How Soon Should I Seek Care?
Pink eye is very rarely an emergency situation. But, that doesn’t mean that you should wait too long to seek care for your little one.
If symptoms are worsening, haven’t improved, or if your child is experiencing significant discomfort, prompt care is a must.
Newborns with symptoms should be seen right away. For older children, the situation isn’t as urgent, but faster care means faster healing.
Suspect Your Child Has Pink Eye? Come See Us!
As a parent, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of guessing what’s causing your child’s symptoms.
If you suspect your child has pink eye, don’t wait to be seen by a healthcare professional. At POP Now we offer same-day treatment for kids of all ages.
For same-day care, schedule an appointment online or give our office a call at (240) 922-0001 and visit our Rockville clinic any day of the week.