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Conjunctivitis in the Newborn: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Neonatal conjunctivitis is an eye infection that affects newborns, typically within the first month of life. It causes redness and swelling of the eye’s conjunctiva, the thin tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Though the condition can be alarming to see in your newborn, it is treatable and can be managed with prompt medical attention. If not treated, this condition can lead to serious eye problems, including vision loss.

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we understand that the health and well-being of your newborn are your top priority. In this article, we’ll guide you through what neonatal conjunctivitis is, its symptoms, causes, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options available. We’ll also highlight why Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is the best place for your baby’s care.

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Symptoms

  • Redness/puffiness around the eyes
  • Watery discharge or thick, yellowish-green pus from one or both eyes
  • Eyelids that stick together, especially after sleep
  • Sensitivity to light or discomfort when exposed to bright light
  • Swollen or tender eyelids
  • Redness in the white part of the eye

Causes

  • eye drops containing silver nitrate
  • infections from bacteria or viruses like chlamydia, gonorrhea, staph, and herpes.

Diagnosis

  • Medical history: The doctor will ask about your pregnancy and any infections you may have had, as well as when symptoms began.
  • Eye examination: A physical examination of your baby’s eyes will be conducted to check for redness, swelling, and discharge.
  • Lab tests: A sample of the eye discharge may be taken and sent to the lab to identify the cause of the infection, whether it is bacterial, viral, or due to chemical irritation.

Treatment Options

  • Bacterial Infections:
    • If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics are the most common treatment. Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are typically prescribed, and in more severe cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary.
  • Viral Infections:
    • Newborns suspected of having a herpes infection should be treated with acyclovir, a medication that helps prevent the infection from spreading throughout the body.
  • Chemical Irritation:
    • If the conjunctivitis is due to chemical exposure from eye drops, no specific treatment is needed, but artificial tears can help relieve discomfort.

Why Choose Us

Expert team

Our pediatric specialists have extensive experience in treating children.

Personalized care

We create treatment plans that fit each child’s unique needs

Support and education

We teach children and families how to care for them and prevent future cases

Advanced treatments

Access to the latest treatments and products

Contact

Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.

+254-709-529-000

+254-733-645-000

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Monday - Saturday
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sundays & Public Holidays
9:00 am - 7:00 pm

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Monday - Saturday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm