Newborn babies often have watery or sticky eyes. This is common and often goes without needing treatment.
Q. What causes a blocked tear duct?
A. Usually the cause is a delay in the duct opening fully. Aprox 1 in 5 babies have this problem. Usually by the time the baby is one year old it will have resolved.
Q. Is it serious?
A. No, sometimes when baby has been asleep the affected eye looks sticky or the lashes matted with a gluey material. The eyeball should look healthy and white.
Q. How do I treat it?
A. Massage the area above the centre of the eyebrow working down towards the duct. (see pic above)Clean using a cotton wool ball and cooled boiled water wiping from the inside of the eye (tearduct side) to the outside. Use fresh cotton wool each time you touch the eye. The massage will stimulate the duct, clearing any matter and helps the duct to develop.
Q. Any problems I should look for?
A. If the eyeball becomes red or inflamed seek medical advice as this may mean conjunctivitis has developed and may require antibiotic drops. If the baby rubs the eye a lot or seems in pain or doesn't like opening the eye or light appears to bother them then seek medical attention.
Remember, if you aren't sure just ring and ask us for advice.
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