Uncommon Infant and Newborn Problems—Eye Infections

Your eyes can get infections from bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye and can affect just one eye or both. Two common eye infections are

Conjunctivitis – also known as pinkeye. Conjunctivitis is often due to an infection. Children frequently get it, and it is very contagious.
Stye – a bump on the eyelid that happens when bacteria from your skin get into the hair follicle of an eyelash.

Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or problems with vision. Treatment depends on the cause of the infection and may include compresses, eye drops, creams, or antibiotics.

Blepharitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Corneal ulcers and infections (Medical Encyclopedia)
Cytomegalovirus retinitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Dacryoadenitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Endophthalmitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Eye burning – itching and discharge (Medical Encyclopedia)
Eye redness (Medical Encyclopedia)
Meibomianitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Orbital cellulitis (Medical Encyclopedia)
Parinaud oculoglandular syndrome (Medical Encyclopedia)
Periorbital cellulitis (Medical Encyclopedia)

It can be scary when your baby is sick, especially when it is not an everyday problem like a cold or a fever. You may not know whether the problem is serious or how to treat it. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, call your health care provider right away.

Learning information about your baby’s condition can help ease your worry. Do not be afraid to ask questions about your baby’s care. By working together with your health care provider, you make sure that your baby gets the best care possible.