When a Red Eye Means More Than Just Irritation
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
When Red, Watery Eyes Appear and You Are Left Wondering What’s Causing It
Your child’s eye looks red and irritated. There may be tearing, crusting, or a sense of discomfort, especially when they wake up. You may wonder if it’s just tiredness, an allergy or something that needs medical attention. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we help parents understand these changes with clear guidance and calm support, so you feel less anxious and more prepared.
Viral conjunctivitis, also known as “pink eye,” is a common eye infection in children. It is usually caused by a virus that also affects the nose or throat and often spreads within families or preschools. Although it can look alarming, it usually resolves with time and care.
What Is Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids. It is caused by viruses that are often linked to upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold.
It is contagious and can spread easily through:
Touching the eyes after coughing or sneezing
Sharing towels, pillows or washcloths
Playing in close contact with other children
Attending preschool or childcare during an active outbreak
Though it usually resolves on its own, it is important to monitor symptoms and care for your child’s comfort while helping prevent the spread to others.
What You Might Notice
The symptoms of viral conjunctivitis may develop gradually and often appear in both eyes, though one may be affected first.
Redness and Watering
Your child’s eyes may appear red or glassy, with a clear or slightly sticky discharge. Their lashes may be crusted upon waking, though not as thick as with bacterial conjunctivitis.
Discomfort and Irritation
They may complain of a scratchy or gritty feeling, rub their eyes frequently or become more sensitive to light. The eyes may tear more than usual throughout the day.
Cold or Flu Symptoms
Many children with viral conjunctivitis also show signs of a cold, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat or a mild cough. These symptoms can help distinguish the cause.
How We Support Your Child at Joyful Seeds
At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we take a caring, child-centred approach to treating viral conjunctivitis. Our goal is to ease your child’s discomfort while giving you the clarity and reassurance you need to support them at home.
Your child’s care may include:
A thorough examination of the eyes and general health
Guidance on how to clean the eyes safely and reduce spread
Recommendations for symptom relief, such as cool compresses
Prescribing lubricating eye drops if needed for comfort
Follow-up advice to monitor for bacterial infection
Clear information on school or childcare exclusion periods
Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu bring warmth and expertise to every consultation. Their gentle communication helps children feel calm during eye exams and empowers parents to care for their children with confidence.
Supporting You at Home with Confidence
We know that having a sick child can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms affect their eyes. At Joyful Seeds, we make sure you understand what to expect and how to manage each stage of recovery. You will receive practical advice on cleaning the eyes, managing hygiene in the household and knowing when to return to daily activities.
We also guide you on when to return to the clinic, such as if the redness worsens, if there is increasing discomfort or if new symptoms arise.
Let Us Help You Navigate the Recovery with Care
If your child has red, irritated or watery eyes and you are unsure of the cause, we welcome you to visit us. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we offer thoughtful, family-focused care that brings clarity and relief. You do not have to figure this out on your own, we are here to walk with you from the first symptoms to full recovery.
