Question
Why do children constantly blink their eyes?
Answer
Conjunctivitis is a common infectious eye condition. Children may experience noticeable symptoms such as a foreign body sensation or burning. There is more discharge (eye gunk) and blurred vision. It is important to seek prompt treatment. However, if the discharge is cleared, vision is usually unaffected. The discharge starts as a liquid and gradually becomes thicker, often sticking the eyelids together in the morning, forming crusts that make it difficult to open the eyes. Sometimes, pseudomembranes may form on the conjunctival surface, appearing as grayish white and easy to peel off, but prone to recurrence. The conjunctiva is notably inflamed, especially in the bulbar conjunctiva, and sometimes there are petechiae or subconjunctival hemorrhages under the sclera. It is recommended to first wipe away the eye discharge with a wet cotton swab, remove the pseudomembrane, then cleanse with physiological saline solution. After that, apply eye drops containing 0.25% chloramphenicol or 10% to 30% sulfacetamide sodium solution every two hours. Before going to bed, apply an antibiotic ointment such as 0.5% neomycin ointment, and avoid covering or icing the eyes. To prevent the condition, it is important to block the transmission route. Do not use towels, handkerchiefs, washbasins, training equipment, etc. of patients. After touching the patient’s eyes or items, thoroughly clean your hands with soap water, and strengthen health education to avoid bad habits of rubbing eyes with hands.