• 2 weeks ago

How to Recognize Eye Discharge and Tear Duct Blockage in Newborns

Is Eye Discharge Normal in Newborns?

Yes. Mild eye discharge and tearing in the first few weeks of life is common. This is often due to:

  • Underdeveloped tear glands
  • Tear ducts not yet fully open, causing tears to build up and overflow

Typically, only one eye is affected, and symptoms are more noticeable after sleep.

What Is a Blocked Tear Duct (Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction)?

The nasolacrimal duct carries tears from the eye to the nose. If the lower end of the duct remains closed at birth, tears cannot drain properly, causing watery eyes and crusting.

Signs of a Blocked Tear Duct:

  • Persistent watering in one eye
  • Yellow or white discharge and eye crusting
  • Sticky eyelashes or eyelids
  • Recurrent discharge after cleaning
  • Swelling or redness near the inner corner of the eye

If the eye becomes red, swollen, and painful, dacryocystitis (infection of the tear sac) may be present and needs medical attention.

Blocked Tear Duct vs. Normal Eye Discharge

Symptom

Normal Discharge

Blocked Tear Duct

Duration

Short-lived

May last weeks or months

Sides

Often both eyes, mild

Usually one eye, persistent

Discharge

Clear or light

Thick, yellow or green

After cleaning

Improves

Reappears quickly

Additional signs

None

Redness, stickiness, swelling possible

When to Call a Doctor

  • Eye becomes red, swollen, or tender
  • Discharge turns green or thick yellow
  • Discharge persists despite cleaning
  • No improvement by 12 months of age
  • Symptoms worsen with antibiotics or develop into infection

In most cases, blocked tear ducts resolve on their own. If not, a pediatric ophthalmologist may recommend treatment.

Home Care and Treatment Strategies

1. Gentle Eye Cleaning

  • Use sterile gauze or cotton pad soaked in cooled boiled water
  • Wipe from the inner corner outward
  • Use a separate pad for each eye

2. Tear Duct Massage (Crigler Massage)

  • Place your finger near the inner corner of the eye
  • Apply gentle downward pressure toward the side of the nose
  • Do this 3–4 times a day, 5–10 strokes each time
  • Helps open the duct naturally over time

3. Eye Drops or Antibiotics

  • Only if prescribed by a doctor
  • Used in cases of infection or significant discharge

Will It Resolve on Its Own?

  • Yes, in about 90% of cases, the tear duct opens by 12 months of age
  • Regular massage and hygiene increase the chances of natural resolution
  • If not resolved, a probing procedure may be performed after the first year