Concerns About Eye and Other Infections in Young Children

Concern about eye and other infections in children?

Dear Dr.
Tsai,
Recently, I took my 2-year-old child to a hotel in Kenting, where the following two incidents occurred:
1.
While bathing, the showerhead fell to the ground, and a strong jet of water sprayed into my child's eyes.
At that moment, my child kept rubbing their eyes.

2.
The next day, my child tripped and fell into an infinity pool with a water level of about 20 cm (outdoor, stagnant water, made of stone tiles).
My child is approximately 90 cm tall.
When they fell, their face was down, and although they tried to brace themselves with their hands, the slippery surface due to the water caused their head to submerge, resulting in a wet face and some water entering their nose (while still sucking on a pacifier).
The hotel staff provided a towel to dry my child off, and we immediately bathed them upon returning home.

Since the incident, my child has frequently complained of pain, pointing to their head (the top and back, where there was no impact), eyes, and nose, saying "it hurts" and asking for ointment.
On the third day after the incident, we consulted a pediatric neurologist, who indicated that the headache is likely not due to impact since my child had braced themselves and was face down.
The doctor suggested that we should be more concerned about potential infections (bacterial, parasitic, etc.) or heat-related issues.
Today marks the fourth day since the incident.
I would like to ask Dr.
Tsai: Should we take our child to an ophthalmologist for an examination, or consult another specialty? What specific symptoms should we continue to monitor? How long should we observe before feeling reassured?
Thank you for your advice and insights, Dr.
Tsai.
We are concerned about any potential issues.

Hong Mama, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/26

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Observe for any abnormalities, and then seek medical examination.

Reply Date: 2023/03/26

More Info

When it comes to young children experiencing potential eye and other infections, especially after incidents like the ones you described, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. Your child's experiences with the showerhead and the fall into the pool raise valid concerns about possible infections or injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

Firstly, regarding the incident with the showerhead, if the water was clean and the showerhead was not contaminated, the risk of infection is relatively low. However, if the showerhead had been in contact with unclean surfaces or if there were any visible contaminants in the water, there could be a risk of conjunctivitis (pink eye) or other eye infections. The child rubbing their eyes can exacerbate any potential irritation or infection, so it is crucial to monitor for symptoms such as redness, excessive tearing, or discharge from the eyes.

In the case of the fall into the pool, there are several factors to consider. The fact that the child’s face was submerged in water raises concerns about potential waterborne infections, especially if the pool water was stagnant and not treated properly. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can occur in such environments. Additionally, if the child inhaled water, there is a risk of aspiration, which could lead to respiratory issues or infections.

Given that your child is experiencing pain in the head, eyes, and nose, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. While the pediatric neurologist you consulted indicated that the headache is likely not due to a concussion, it is still essential to rule out any infections or complications that may arise from the incidents.
Here are some recommendations for your situation:
1. Eye Examination: It would be prudent to take your child to an ophthalmologist for a thorough eye examination. This is especially important if you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge from the eyes. Early intervention can prevent complications.

2. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your child's symptoms. If they develop a fever, persistent headache, or any signs of respiratory distress, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you notice any changes in behavior, such as increased irritability or lethargy, these could be signs of a more serious issue.

3. Hydration and Rest: Ensure your child stays well-hydrated and gets plenty of rest. This is crucial for recovery, especially if there is any underlying infection.

4. Follow-Up: If symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to return to your healthcare provider. It may also be beneficial to consult a pediatrician for a comprehensive evaluation, as they can assess for any systemic issues that may arise from the incidents.

5. Infection Prevention: Educate your child about the importance of not rubbing their eyes and maintaining good hygiene, especially after being in potentially contaminated water.

In conclusion, while the incidents your child experienced may not necessarily lead to severe complications, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring their health. Seeking an eye examination and being aware of any developing symptoms will help ensure your child's well-being and peace of mind for you as a parent.

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