If your child suddenly wakes up with red, itchy eyes, it can be hard to tell what’s going on. Is it pink eye, or just allergies? Both conditions can look very similar at first glance, and parents understandably worry about whether their child should stay home from school or needs to see a doctor right away.
At Pediatric Eye Associates, we see this question often. Our board-certified pediatric ophthalmologists — Dr. Amy Lambert and Dr. Rachel Bloom — help families in New Jersey figure out what’s really causing their child’s eye irritation and what treatment will bring fast relief.
What Is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye. There are three main types:
- Viral pink eye – usually starts in one eye, spreads to the other, and comes with watery discharge. It can also follow a cold or other viral infection.
- Bacterial pink eye – causes redness, irritation, and thick, sometimes yellow-green discharge. This type may require antibiotic eye drops.
- Allergic conjunctivitis – triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. It usually affects both eyes and comes with intense itching and watery discharge.
Viral and bacterial pink eye can spread easily, especially among children, which is why schools and daycares often ask kids to stay home until cleared by a doctor. Allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is not contagious.
How Allergies Affect the Eyes
Seasonal allergies are very common in New Jersey, and they often show up in the eyes. Kids (and adults) with eye allergies may have:
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Persistent itching
- Puffy eyelids
- Watery discharge (but not the thick kind you see with bacterial infections)
Unlike pink eye, allergy symptoms often come and go depending on the season or exposure to allergens. If your child is rubbing their eyes constantly in spring or fall, allergies are a strong possibility.
Key Differences to Look For
Parents can use a few clues to help distinguish pink eye from allergies:
- Discharge – Thick, sticky discharge that crusts the eyelashes is more likely bacterial pink eye. Clear and watery? Could be viral or allergies.
- Itching – Severe itching is usually linked to allergies. Pink eye tends to cause irritation but not intense itching.
- Other symptoms – If your child also has sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion, allergies may be the cause. If there’s a recent cold, viral pink eye is more likely.
- One eye or both – Pink eye often starts in one eye. Allergies almost always affect both.
Of course, these signs aren’t always clear-cut, which is why a proper diagnosis from a pediatric eye specialist matters.
How Our Doctors Diagnose
At Pediatric Eye Associates, our doctors take the time to carefully evaluate each child. Dr. Amy Lambert, who founded the practice in Livingston, has decades of experience distinguishing between different types of conjunctivitis and allergies. She and Dr. Rachel Bloom, who trained at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, use specialized tools and examinations to pinpoint the cause of irritation.
By looking closely at the eyes, eyelids, and surrounding tissues — and considering the child’s overall health history — they can determine whether it’s pink eye, allergies, or another condition that needs attention.
Treatment Options
- Bacterial pink eye – Typically treated with prescription antibiotic drops or ointments.
- Viral pink eye – No antibiotics needed; supportive care such as cool compresses and artificial tears help until it resolves on its own.
- Allergic conjunctivitis – Managed with allergy eye drops, oral antihistamines, or simply reducing exposure to allergens.
In all cases, our team gives parents clear instructions on home care — from keeping the eyes clean to preventing the spread of infection.
Why Families Trust Our Team
Parents trust Pediatric Eye Associates not only for medical expertise but also for the way we care for children and families. Dr. Lambert and Dr. Bloom are both fellowship-trained pediatric ophthalmologists who specialize in children’s eye health and strabismus.
Dr. Lambert, a New Jersey native and mother of twins, established the practice to offer compassionate, high-quality eye care in a setting that feels comfortable and reassuring. Dr. Bloom, also a mother of two, brings a strong academic background and years of experience treating both children and adults with complex eye conditions.
Together, they provide a unique blend of advanced training and personal care that helps families feel confident and supported.
When to Call a Doctor
If your child’s eyes are red, painful, or producing discharge — especially if vision changes occur — don’t wait. A prompt evaluation ensures your child gets the right treatment and avoids unnecessary discomfort.
At Pediatric Eye Associates, LLC, we’re here to help families across New Jersey navigate these common but confusing eye problems with expertise and compassion.
Learn more about our practice and services at kideyedoc.com or call 973-315-6775
