Neonatal Conjunctivitis
Alternate Names : Ophthalmia Neonatorum
What are the treatments for the disease?
Treatment will depend on the type of infection.
Babies born to mothers with gonorrhea are given oral antibiotics right
after birth.
Babies born to mothers with chlamydia need to take oral antibiotics, such
as erythromycin.
Newborns with gonococcal conjunctivitis need to be hospitalized and
treated with an antibiotic, such as ceftriaxone.
Conjunctivitis and pneumonia caused by chlamydia is treated
with an oral antibiotic, such as erythromycin.
Infants with gonococcal or pseudomonas conjunctivitis will be given regular saline eye rinses.
Infants with conjunctivitis caused by pseudomonas or staphylococcus are
treated with intravenous, or IV, antibiotics.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
The silver nitrate drops put in newborns' eyes to prevent infection can also
cause mild irritation. This goes away by itself in a day or two without lasting
damage. Topical antibiotics may cause an
allergic reaction. Oral antibiotics may cause stomach upset,
rash, or allergic reactions.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
The healthcare provider will evaluate the baby to see how the conjunctivitis is
clearing up. If symptoms continue or progress, further treatment may be
necessary.
How is the disease monitored?
Babies should be watched to make sure the infection does not return after
treatment. Mothers of infants with neonatal conjunctivitis should be tested and
treated for STDs when appropriate. Any new or worsening symptoms should be
reported to the healthcare provider.
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