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Pink Eye in Children

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the thin tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyelids. It can cause redness, watering, discharge, itching or irritation.

Viruses, bacteria and allergies are common causes. Smoke, chemicals, foreign objects and other forms of eye irritation can also cause conjunctivitis.

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AAP Guide to Pink Eye in Children

The AAP guide below explains the common causes of pink eye, when drops may help, and when your child needs care.

AAP Symptom CheckerPink eye

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child has significant eye pain, light sensitivity or a change in vision.
  • The eyelid becomes very swollen or the redness follows an eye injury.
  • Thick discharge persists or the symptoms are getting worse.
  • A newborn develops a red or draining eye.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child suddenly loses vision or has severe eye pain.
  • A chemical or penetrating injury affected the eye.
  • Your child has another serious eye emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

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