Red flags & when to go in person for Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Audience: pediatric

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection of the eye's outer layer that often causes redness, discharge, and discomfort. In children, it is common and usually mild, but some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. Telemedicine can help with initial advice and monitoring, but if your child has severe pain, vision changes, or swelling around the eye, an in-person visit is important. Early identification of serious symptoms helps prevent complications. This guide explains when to seek urgent care, what telemedicine can manage, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or discomfort — seek emergency care immediately.
• Vision changes such as blurriness or loss of sight — get urgent in-person evaluation.
• Swelling around the eye or eyelids — requires prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild eye redness and discharge.
• Providing guidance on home care and hygiene.
• Monitoring symptom progression via video or phone.
• Answering questions about common symptoms and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing severe eye infections or complications.
• Performing physical eye examinations that require specialized equipment.
• Prescribing medications that require in-person evaluation in some regions.
• Managing vision loss or severe pain emergencies.

What is Bacterial Conjunctivitis?

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and inside of the eyelids. It often causes redness, yellow or green discharge, and eyelid sticking, especially in children. It can spread easily but usually improves with proper care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Your Child's Eye Symptoms

Telemedicine can help you understand symptoms, decide if your child needs in-person care, and guide home care steps. It is useful for mild symptoms like slight redness or small amounts of discharge without pain or vision problems. A video call can let the provider see the eye and offer advice.

Red Flags: When to Go In Person Immediately

Seek urgent in-person care if your child has:

These signs may indicate a more serious infection or complication.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the virtual visit:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area for the telemedicine visit.
• Have your child's eye symptoms clearly noted, including start date and changes.
• Prepare a device with a camera to show the child's eyes if needed.
• Gather any current medications or treatments your child is using.
• Be ready to describe any other symptoms such as fever or pain.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions given by the provider.
• Keep the child's eyes clean and avoid rubbing or touching.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Practice good hand hygiene to prevent spread to others.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or red flags develop.

FAQs

Can bacterial conjunctivitis go away without antibiotics?

Sometimes mild bacterial conjunctivitis can improve on its own with good hygiene, but antibiotics often help speed recovery and reduce spread. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

Is bacterial conjunctivitis contagious?

Yes, it spreads easily through direct contact with eye secretions or contaminated objects. Frequent hand washing and avoiding sharing towels or pillows help prevent spread.

When should I worry about my child's vision?

If your child has any changes in vision such as blurriness, difficulty seeing, or loss of sight, seek in-person medical care immediately as this may indicate a serious problem.

Can I use over-the-counter eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis?

Some over-the-counter drops may relieve symptoms, but they do not treat bacterial infections. Consult a healthcare provider before using any eye drops.

How long does bacterial conjunctivitis usually last?

With treatment, symptoms often improve within a few days and clear up within one to two weeks. Without treatment, it may last longer and spread to others.

Sources

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Conjunctivitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Bacterial Conjunctivitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.