That Sticky, Red Eye Might Be Bacterial Conjunctivitis
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago

You notice your child’s eyes are red and sticky when they wake up. There may be a yellowish discharge, crusting on the lashes or complaints of discomfort. As a parent, it can be hard to tell if it is something minor or something that needs a doctor’s review. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we support families through these uncertain moments with calm, caring and clear medical guidance.
Bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is an infection of the eye’s outer membrane caused by bacteria. While it can look alarming, it is treatable and usually resolves with the right care. Our focus is to help your child feel better while preventing the infection from spreading.
What Is Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis occurs when bacteria infect the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It is often spread through:
Direct contact with infected hands or objects
Sharing towels, pillows or eye drops
Touching the eyes after being in public spaces such as preschools or playgrounds
Unlike allergic conjunctivitis, which is caused by allergens, bacterial conjunctivitis is an active infection that can spread to others, particularly in close-contact settings.
What You Might Notice
The signs of bacterial conjunctivitis can appear quickly and are often more pronounced than other types of eye irritation. Here are some common features to look out for:
Redness and Discharge
One or both eyes may look red or bloodshot. A thick, yellow or green discharge may collect in the corners or cause the eyelids to stick together, especially after sleep.
Crusting and Irritation
Your child may wake up with their eyelids crusted shut or complain that their eyes feel “scratchy” or sore. Some children may also be sensitive to bright light.
Spreading to Others
Because this condition is contagious, siblings or classmates may begin showing similar symptoms if precautions are not taken. Early care helps contain the spread and reduce discomfort.
How We Support Your Child at Joyful Seeds
At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we take a thoughtful and gentle approach to diagnosing and managing bacterial conjunctivitis. We understand how eye symptoms can be unsettling, especially when they appear suddenly.
Your child’s care may include:
A careful eye examination to confirm the cause of symptoms
Guidance on hygiene and how to avoid spreading the infection
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments when appropriate
Supportive care to ease irritation and promote faster recovery
Advice on school or childcare attendance during the infection
Follow-up support if symptoms do not improve within a few days
Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu bring calm, clear reassurance to families facing common childhood infections. Their goal is to help your child recover quickly while ensuring your family feels supported throughout the process.
Supporting You Through Treatment and Recovery
It can be stressful to manage eye infections, especially when your child is feeling unwell and you are trying to prevent the spread at home or school. At Joyful Seeds, we offer more than medical care , we provide emotional guidance too. You will receive practical tips on how to clean the eyes, administer eye drops and speak with your child in a way that reduces anxiety.
We also help you understand when it is safe for your child to return to group settings and how to spot signs that a different type of care may be needed.
Let Us Help You Navigate This with Confidence
If your child is showing signs of red, sticky or uncomfortable eyes, we invite you to visit us. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we provide thoughtful, experienced care that helps your child feel better and keeps the rest of the family protected. You do not have to navigate this alone, we are here to support you every step of the way.