Sticky Eyes in Newborn Babies
Dacryostenosis or a “blocked tear duct” is common in newborns. We receive several questions about this problem from parents. Parents get easily worried about eye problems in their babies. The most common conditions that parents complain about are pink eyes, eyes looking red, eye infection, colored discharge from the eyes, and babies with sticky eyes when they wake up.
A blocked tear duct can be very common in newborn babies, and the condition isn’t as severe compared to conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of Sticky Eyes in Newborns
- Pink eye
- The baby seems sensitive to light
- Watery eyes
- Eye discharge in babies
- They are constantly squeezing their eyes shut
Causes of Sticky Eyes in Newborns
Tears start forming in babies’ eyes 2-3 weeks after birth. This is because the inner corner of the eye towards the nose that drains tears can be blocked from birth itself. If the tear duct is blocked, it pushes the tear back to the eye, which allows bacteria to accumulate and lead to infections.
In a few cases, tear ducts are too narrow. Sometimes, other factors such as excess mucus or dead cells can also cause it. It advised to seek medical support
Treatment for Sticky Eyes in Newborns
Cleaning the eyes
If your baby has a sticky eye problem, it is very important to keep the eyes clean. You will need:
- A cotton swab easily found at chemists. Do not use cotton wool balls because those are known for shedding pieces of cotton into the eye.
- Soak cotton swab in boiled cooled water squeeze and clean the eye.
Wash the affected eye, following the directions below:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before proceeding with cleaning.
- Pat the eye dry with a clean towel.
- Gently wipe any discharge with a disposable cotton swab soaked in boiled cooled water.
- Please do not touch the eye itself or clean inside the eyelid because that may damage the eye.
- Wash your hands again.
Medical Treatment
Antibiotics eye drops that are child friendly may be required to be applied to the eyes as prescribed by the eye doctor.
Surgical Treatment
If the sticky eye condition lasts longer than a year, the doctors may advise undergoing surgery to open the duct, formally known as tear duct probing surgery. The surgery opens the pathway for tears to flow through the drainage system.
Be it a baby or a young adult, any issue with eyes shouldn’t be ignored. If you are looking for sticky eye treatment for newborns, routine eye checkups, or any modern eye treatment, feel free to contact us or book an appointment for your clear future!
