At a glance
- Red, watery or sticky eyes may result from viruses, bacteria, allergies or irritation. Discharge color alone cannot identify the cause. Allergies often cause itching in both eyes; an examination may be needed.
- Wash hands, avoid shared towels and gently clean discharge with a clean damp cloth. Do not share eye drops. Antibiotics do not treat viral conjunctivitis. Stop contact lenses and seek advice before restarting. School attendance depends on symptoms and local policy.
- A newborn with red or draining eyes needs immediate medical assessment. Seek urgent care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, marked eyelid swelling with fever or pain when moving the eye.
- Note the pattern below and bring your questions and current medicines to the visit. This record does not diagnose or choose treatment.
- This guide organizes warning signs; it cannot rule out illness. Follow the child’s clinician and local guidance.
What this can mean
Red, watery or sticky eyes may result from viruses, bacteria, allergies or irritation. Discharge color alone cannot identify the cause. Allergies often cause itching in both eyes; an examination may be needed.
Practical next steps
Wash hands, avoid shared towels and gently clean discharge with a clean damp cloth. Do not share eye drops. Antibiotics do not treat viral conjunctivitis. Stop contact lenses and seek advice before restarting. School attendance depends on symptoms and local policy.
Notice, act, reassess
- Eye affected, itching, discharge, pain, vision changes and care advised
- Wash hands, avoid shared towels and gently clean discharge with a clean damp cloth. Do not share eye drops. Antibiotics do not treat viral conjunctivitis. Stop contact lenses and seek advice before restarting. School attendance depends on symptoms and local policy.
- A newborn with red or draining eyes needs immediate medical assessment. Seek urgent care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, marked eyelid swelling with fever or pain when moving the eye.
When to seek help
A newborn with red or draining eyes needs immediate medical assessment. Seek urgent care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, marked eyelid swelling with fever or pain when moving the eye.
Call local emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, blue/gray lips, collapse, a seizure with failure to recover, or a child who is very difficult to wake. Do not delay to complete this tool.
A baby younger than 3 months with a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher needs urgent medical assessment, even if they look well. Do not delay assessment to try medicine or complete a diary.
Prepare for the visit
Note the pattern below and bring your questions and current medicines to the visit. This record does not diagnose or choose treatment.
- Eye affected, itching, discharge, pain, vision changes and care advised
Common questions
What does this pattern mean?
Red, watery or sticky eyes may result from viruses, bacteria, allergies or irritation. Discharge color alone cannot identify the cause. Allergies often cause itching in both eyes; an examination may be needed.
What can families do next?
Wash hands, avoid shared towels and gently clean discharge with a clean damp cloth. Do not share eye drops. Antibiotics do not treat viral conjunctivitis. Stop contact lenses and seek advice before restarting. School attendance depends on symptoms and local policy.
When should we seek medical help?
A newborn with red or draining eyes needs immediate medical assessment. Seek urgent care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, marked eyelid swelling with fever or pain when moving the eye.
What should I write down?
Eye affected, itching, discharge, pain, vision changes and care advised
Sources
Written for Pedemy in our own words from the sources above; checked October 2026. For education only, not medical advice. Pedemy is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by the organizations cited.