Conjunctivitis in a newborn child

Redness, swelling and watering of the eyes usually indicates conjunctivitis in a newborn and is not an unusual phenomenon in this age group.

Even 1% solution of silver nitrate eye drops, which was prescribed for new borns earlier, could cause chemical conjunctivitis. It has now been scientifically proven that silver nitrate sometimes causes conjunctivitis instead of preventing it. But, a lot of hospitals continue to use it for newborns.

Wipe the eyes gently with sterilised cotton moistened with water. And apply antibiotic eye drops after consulting your doctor.