The lining of the eyeball or eyelid becomes inflamed because of bacteria, virus or allergic reactions.
Burning, itchy eyes with heavy, sticky discharge are signs of bacterial conjunctivitis, which is very contagious; tears, swollen lymph node and a light discharge of mucus from one eye are signs of viral conjunctivitis; red, itchy eyes, and tears combined with an itchy, runny nose may indicate allergic conjunctivitis.
Children with eye infections will usually run a fever, cry a lot, become easily bored and can be unusually quiet.
If infection does not clear after 3 days of treatment, seek professional advice.
First, clean the eyes and remove pus or discharge with one of the following:
Dissolve 1/4 tsp salt in glass water. Use the solution to clean the eye.
Prepare an infusion of neem leaves. When it is lukewarm use the solution to bathe the eye.
After cleaning the eye, apply one of the following remedies to help clear the infection: