Conjunctiva Issues

The conjunctiva is the thin tissue, or membrane, that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the sclera (the white part of the eye). Its function is to help lubricate the eye by producing mucus and, to a lesser degree, tears. It also helps to prevent illness by preventing microbes from entering the eye. Some common issues with the conjunctiva include:

Allergies

Allergic conjunctivitis is a reaction of the eye caused by environmental influences, such as dust, pollen and animal dander, and, in some cases, medications. It is not an infection and is not contagious but can be very irritating.

The conjunctiva can be affected by becoming pink and bloodshot. Symptoms include itching, stinging, tearing and burning. Prescription and non-prescription eye drops are used to alleviate the allergic reaction. Cold compresses can also be helpful in reducing itching and swelling and can be soothing to children suffering from allergic conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis

General conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is a condition caused by bacteria, viruses or chemicals. Symptoms may include burning, itching, irritation, discharge or crusting of the lashes.

If caused by bacteria or viruses, it can be contagious. If your child has general conjunctivitis, be sure to wash your hands before touching your face or eyes to prevent contamination. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic drops or ointment. Viral conjunctivitis does not respond to antibiotics, but cold compresses and lubricating ointments can be soothing until the condition passes.

Source: American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

Children’s Eye Care provides this information for general educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an eye care professional. Children’s Eye Care disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.

Hemangioma

A capillary hemangioma (strawberry birthmark) is a non-cancerous tumor consisting of an abnormal overgrowth of tiny blood vessels. Capillary hemangiomas are usually not present at birth but appear in the first 6 months. They usually begin to decrease in size between 12 and 15 months of age. Most regress nearly completely by 5 or 6 years of age. Capillary hemangiomas are more common in premature infants and in girls.

Amblyopia can occur in an eyelid hemangioma if it causes undue pressure on the eye leading to astigmatism.  This may blur the vision and result in a type of refractive amblyopia. Hemangiomas on the eyelid can also block, or occlude, the line of sight and result in occlusion amblyopia.

A capillary hemangioma in the eye socket can put pressure on the eye and result in amblyopia or strabismus. It can also press on the optic nerve which may cause optic nerve atrophy.  Any of these conditions may damage vision.

Capillary hemangiomas can be treated with medication, laser treatment or surgery, depending on the location of the hemangioma, its severity, and whether or not it is causing vision problems.

Source: American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

Children’s Eye Care provides this information for general educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an eye care professional. Children’s Eye Care disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.