Your baby's eyes are likely watering due to a common issue: a delayed development of the naso-lacrimal duct. This duct is responsible for draining tears from the eye into the nose, and sometimes it's not fully developed in newborns.
Understanding the Naso-Lacrimal Duct
The naso-lacrimal duct connects the tear sac with the nose. When this duct isn't fully open or is narrow, tears can't drain properly, leading to watery eyes. According to research, this is a very common problem, affecting up to 20% of babies (or 1 in 5).
Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct:
- Excessive tearing: Even when your baby isn't crying, their eyes may look watery.
- Sticky discharge: You might notice a sticky or yellowish discharge in the corners of their eyes.
- Mild redness: The area around the eye might appear slightly red or irritated, although severe redness should be checked by a doctor.
Why is it Common in Babies?
- Development: The naso-lacrimal duct is still developing in newborns, and sometimes the drainage pathway isn't fully open.
- Narrow ducts: Some babies simply have narrower ducts, making drainage slower.
- Membrane blockage: Sometimes a thin membrane at the end of the duct can delay its opening.
What Can You Do?
Most cases of a blocked tear duct will clear up on their own within a few months, usually before the age of 1 year, as the duct naturally develops and opens. However, here are some things you can do to help your baby:
- Massage: Gently massage the inner corner of the baby's eye near the nose several times a day. This can help encourage the duct to open.
- Use a clean finger.
- Make circular motions with light pressure.
- Clean the eye: Gently wipe away any discharge using a clean, damp cloth.
- Warm compress: A warm compress may help to relieve any discomfort and loosen the discharge.
When to See a Doctor
While most cases will resolve with massage, it's always a good idea to consult a doctor if:
- The watering is severe or prolonged
- There is significant redness or swelling around the eye.
- You notice signs of infection like a fever or significant discharge
- You see any changes in their vision or signs of pain.
| Symptom | Action |
|---|---|
| Excessive tearing | Massage inner eye corner, clean gently |
| Sticky discharge | Clean with damp cloth, warm compress |
| Redness or swelling | Consult with a doctor |
