Why does my baby keep getting recurrent conjunctivitis?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Recurrent conjunctivitis in infants is mainly caused by untreated infections, poor eye hygiene, continuous exposure to allergens, weak immune system, or abnormal tear duct development, requiring accurate identification of the underlying cause. If the baby shows symptoms such as swollen eyes with excessive discharge, frequent eye rubbing, or persistent crying, prompt medical attention is recommended. Inadequate medication dosage, incomplete treatment course, or擅自 discontinuation of medication can also contribute to recurrence.
Recurrent conjunctivitis in infants is mainly caused by incomplete treatment of infection, poor eye hygiene, continuous exposure to allergens, weak immunity, or abnormal tear duct development. Identifying the specific cause is essential. If your baby shows symptoms such as swollen eyes with excessive discharge, frequent eye rubbing, or persistent crying, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
1. Incomplete treatment of infection: Insufficient dosage, incomplete medication course, or stopping medication without medical advice may leave pathogens in the body. Once the baby's resistance drops slightly, reinfection can occur, leading to recurrent episodes.
2. Poor eye hygiene: Babies' hands easily pick up bacteria and viruses, which can be transferred into the eyes when they rub them. Additionally, if cleaning supplies are not regularly disinfected, cross-infection may occur, repeatedly triggering conjunctivitis.
3. Continuous exposure to allergens: If babies are allergic to dust mites, pollen, pet dander, etc., and remain exposed to these allergens, allergic conjunctivitis will persist and recur, making full recovery difficult.
4. Weak immune system: Young infants have immature immune systems. Those suffering from malnutrition or lack of physical activity often have low resistance, making them more vulnerable to pathogen invasion and recurrence of infection.
5. Abnormal tear duct development: Narrowing or blockage of the tear duct hinders proper drainage of tears, causing fluid to accumulate in the eye and promoting bacterial growth. This leads to repeated episodes of infectious conjunctivitis, often accompanied by excessive tearing.
Treatment should follow medical guidance with adequate dosage and full course of anti-inflammatory or antiallergic medications—do not adjust dosage arbitrarily. Regularly trim your baby’s nails, use dedicated cleaning supplies that are boiled and disinfected periodically, avoid known allergens, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, and encourage moderate outdoor activities to strengthen immunity.
