I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.
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Dementia and Your Loved One
Pink Eye Going Around School? A Guide For Parents
Vickie Armstrong
Have you received a note from your child's school informing you that pink eye is going around? Maybe your child has told you that a friend recently developed this condition. Pink eye is quite common in kids, and it's very contagious. So, as a parent, it's important to be informed about this condition so you can react properly if your child contracts it.
What causes pink eye?
Pink eye is a contagious form of conjunctivitis, or inflammation of the lining of the eye. It is usually caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumonia. These bacteria are easily passed from person to person. When someone with pink eye touches their eyes and then touches a surface, someone else who touches that surface and later touches their eyes may contract pink eye.
Who gets pink eye?
Pink eye is most common among kids, since they tend to be less hygienic than adults and because once one is infected, the condition is easily spread to classmates in the school setting. However, adults can get pink eye too. If your child comes down with pink eye, you are at risk of developing it if you come into contact with his or her eye secretions.
What are the symptoms of pink eye?
As the name suggests, pink eye makes the eyes pink or red. They'll also be very itchy, and yellow or green discharge will emerge from the corners of the eyes.
How is pink eye treated?
If you suspect your child has pink eye, you should take him or her to the eye doctor promptly. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotic eye drops that should clear up your child's symptoms in a few days. It will be important for your child to continue using the drops for as long as recommended, even if the symptoms clear up before then. Holding warm compresses over the eyes can also help alleviate discomfort and itchiness. For the most stubborn cases of pink eye, oral antibiotics may be used.
How can you protect your child from pink eye?
If pink eye is going around school, the best way to protect your child is to encourage him or her to have impeccable hygiene. Make sure your child washes his or her hands often, avoids touching the possessions of other children, and keeps his or her hands away from the face and eyes.
Keep in mind that pink eye is quite common, and as long as your child receives prompt treatment, it should not cause any serious or long-lasting consequences. While it is best to try and protect your child from this condition, it's not the end of the world if they do develop it.
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