Why does a child have a lot of eye discharge when they have a cold?

Generally, increased eye discharge in children with a cold may be caused by poor eye hygiene, lack of sleep, allergic conjunctivitis, conjunctivitis, or dacryocystitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical treatment and follow the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Poor Eye Hygiene

During a cold, children may frequently wipe their runny nose and manage other symptoms with their hands. If their hands are unclean, bacteria may enter the eyes, causing increased eye secretions and more eye discharge. Parents should teach children good hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing, and avoid rubbing eyes with dirty hands. Additionally, regularly clean the eyes to keep them clean and dry.

2. Lack of Sleep

Physical discomfort during a cold can lead to poor sleep quality in children. Insufficient sleep can cause eye fatigue, thereby increasing eye discharge. Ensure children have sufficient sleep time and create a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment to improve sleep quality.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is usually triggered by an allergic reaction in children to cold viruses, medications, or certain substances in the environment. Allergies can cause itchy, red, and swollen eyes with congestion, leading to increased eye secretions and eye discharge. Symptoms may include eye itching and tearing. Treatment options may include Ebastine tablets, Montelukast Sodium tablets, Budesonide nasal spray, or other medications, as advised by a physician.

4. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis may occur when the eyes become infected with viruses or bacteria, such as adenovirus or Staphylococcus aureus, during a cold. These pathogens invade the eyes, causing conjunctival congestion, swelling, and increased secretions, resulting in eye discharge. Symptoms such as eye pain and photophobia may also appear. Follow medical advice to use medications such as Tranexamic Acid Eye Drops, Phenylephrine Eye Drops, Amoxicillin Capsules, etc.

5. Dacryocystitis

A cold may trigger dacryocystitis, causing blockage of the tear ducts and preventing tears and secretions from draining normally, leading to accumulation in the eyes. Blocked tear ducts cause increased eye secretions and eye discharge. Symptoms such as redness and pain may also occur. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Eye Drops, Chloramphenicol Eye Drops, Pranoprofen Eye Drops, etc., can be used for treatment.

In daily life, attention should be paid to children's dietary health, avoiding excessive intake of spicy and greasy foods. Encourage drinking more water and eating more fresh vegetables and fruits to help clear heat and detoxify. Regularly clean children's eyes to maintain cleanliness and dryness, and avoid rubbing the eyes with dirty hands.