Allergic conjunctivitis

Use medicines as directed

• Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
• If the doctor gave your child eyedrops, use them as directed. Keep the bottle tip clean. To put in eyedrops:
  • Tilt your child's head back and pull the lower eyelid down with one finger.
  • Drop or squirt the medicine inside the lower lid.
  • Have your child close the eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the drops move around.
  • Do not touch the tip of the bottle to your child's eyelashes or any other surface.

Make your child comfortable

• Use moist cotton or a clean, wet cloth to remove the crust from your child's eyes. Wipe from the inside corner of the eye to the outside. Use a clean part of the cloth for each wipe.
• Put cold or warm wet cloths on your child's eyes a few times a day if the eyes hurt or are itching.
• Do not have your child wear contact lenses until the pinkeye is gone. Clean the contacts and storage case.
• If your child wears disposable contacts, get out a new pair when the eyes have cleared and it is safe to wear contacts again.

Avoid triggers

• Try to find what triggers the pinkeye. Then take steps to avoid it. For example:
  • Control animal dander and other pet allergens by keeping pets only in certain areas of your home.
  • Avoid outdoor pollens by keeping your child inside while pollen counts are high.
  • Control indoor mold by cleaning bathtubs and showers monthly.