Introduction
Especially in early childhood, reddened and irritated eyes occur more frequently, so that it is important to be able to differentiate at least in the beginning what the inflammation in the child is actually caused by. In addition to reactions to the environment (sun, wind, allergy), bacterial infections are also possible, which is why a visit to the ophthalmologist is highly recommended, despite the frequency of childhood eye inflammation.
Clogged tear duct
In about 6% of all children, an incompletely opened nasolacrimal duct (usually only on one side) leads to a collection of excess tear fluid in the eye, as it cannot flow backwards through the nose into the throat as normal. The accumulation of the fluid creates a reservoir directly in the eye, in which bacteria can multiply and the normal cleaning of the eye by always fresh tear fluid is limited to greatly reduced. If there is a permanent but only very slight excess of tears right at the beginning, you can wait and see.
Often the tear ducts widen on their own during the first months. A gentle pressure massage with the fingertips over the tear sac at the inner corner of the eye and downwards towards the nose can help. To cleanse the eye, you can gently wipe from the outer corners of the eye towards the nose with lukewarm water and a disposable washcloth. If the eye is very sensitive to pain or watery, an ophthalmological examination is necessary.
Eyelid inflammation
Foreign bodies, smoke, dust or bacteria (e.g. streptococci) can lead to an inflammation of the eyelid margin. If the child suffers from neurodermatitis, an infection of the dry, scaly skin is quickly possible. In the case of an inflammation, increased secretion can often be observed in the eye, which can be deposited as “crusts” especially at the corners and edges of the eyelids.
If the eyelids turn red, swell and become painful, this is known as eyelid rim inflammation of the eyelids. Yellow crusts, but also pus spots that resemble a “ripe pimple”, indicate bacterial inflammation. Improvement should occur within two days.
If there is no improvement, an eye doctor should be consulted. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe antibiotic eye drops which are administered locally to the eye. Gentle cleansing of the eye with cotton pads or disposable washcloths, which are mixed with lukewarm water or black tea (also promotes healing) can help the inflammation to subside more quickly.
Bright light should be avoided with the help of sun protection (sunglasses) as well as contact with foreign bodies in order not to disturb the healing process. Ongoing studies have shown that farsighted children, among others, are more prone to eyelid inflammation. For this reason, it is recommended that a possible ametropia be clarified by the ophthalmologist.
