Neonatal Conjunctivitis
Alternate Names : Conjunctivitis of the Newborn, Newborn Conjunctivitis, Ophthalmia Neonatorum
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Neonatal Conjunctivitis Treatment
Topical antibiotic eye drops and ointments, oral antibiotics, and intravenous antibiotics are all used depending on the severity of the infection and the organism responsible for it.
Occasionally, topical and oral (or topical and intravenous) routes may be used simultaneously. Irrigation of the eye with normal saline is done to remove the purulent drainage that accumulates.
If the conjunctivitis is caused by a blocked tear duct, gentle warm massage between the eye and nasal area may help. If it is not cleared by one year of age, surgery may be required.
Irritated eyes caused by the eye drops given at birth should resolve on their own.
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