Eye Allergies vs Conjunctivitis in Children: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Dr Ss on
SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi Optometrist performing an Eye vision test on a boy

By- DR ADAEZE

Eye allergies and conjunctivitis both cause red, itchy eyes in children but have different causes and treatments. Allergies stem from environmental triggers, while conjunctivitis is inflammation caused by infections or irritants. Knowing the differences helps with proper care and when to visit an eye specialist.

What Are Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies happen when the eyes react to allergens like:

Symptoms

Children often rub their eyes due to discomfort. Eye allergies are not contagious and tend to occur seasonally.

What Is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear lining over the white of the eye and inside the eyelids.

Causes

Symptoms

Conjunctivitis can be contagious, especially if caused by infections.

Visual comparison of healthy eye vs viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis

Fig. 1: Different Appearances of Conjunctivitis (Adam Debrowski, 2020).

Eye Allergies vs Conjunctivitis: A Quick Comparison

Feature Eye Allergies Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Description Allergic reaction in the eyes Inflammation of the conjunctiva
Causes Pollen, dust, dander, foods, medication Bacteria, viruses, allergens, irritants
Symptoms Itching, tearing, swelling, redness Redness, itching, tearing, discharge
Discharge Watery Watery, white pus, mucopurulent
Eyes affected Usually both Often starts in one, spreads to both
Contagious? No Yes (if viral or bacterial)
Occurrence Seasonal Any time (infection, allergy, trauma)
Treatment Antihistamines, face shields See below


Treatment Options

For Eye Allergies

For Conjunctivitis

See an eye doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Prevention Tips

 

References

Adam, D. (2020). Types of Conjunctivitis: Allergic, Bacterial and Viral. Retrieved from https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/conjunctivitis-types.htm