What does a blocked tear duct look like in babies?
Rarely, the tissues around the tear duct get infected because of the blockage in the tear duct. If this happens, you might see a hard lump appear near the inner corner of your baby’s eye. The lump might look red, purple or black depending on your baby’s skin tone. The skin around the eyelid might also change colour.
How do you clear a baby’s blocked tear duct?
Use a warm compress Every few hours, when the drainage builds up, warm up a clean and soft washcloth or cotton ball with water and gently clean the eye. You can apply gentle pressure to the tear duct. Then, wipe from the inside of the duct to the outside so you don’t wipe anything into the eye.
Can clogged tear duct hurt newborn?
Even though their eyes may be full of tears, a blocked tear duct does not usually cause a baby much discomfort. If a baby with tearing and eye discharge seems to be uncomfortable, it is best to take them to see a doctor.
What is the difference between pink eye and a clogged tear duct?
Conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye, is when the whites of the eyes actually turn red/bloodshot. This is not a normal part of blocked tear ducts — it indicates an infection is present and this requires medical attention. Sometimes we can call in treatment for you, see conjunctivitis page for more details.
How do I know if my baby has a blocked tear duct or conjunctivitis?
If your baby’s eye is very watery and there is some discharge, it’s probably a blocked tear duct. Also known as ‘sticky eye’, this condition usually gets better by itself, but it’s still wise to check with your doctor.
Does my baby have pink eye or blocked tear duct?
If your younger child is repeatedly diagnosed with pink eye, especially if their eye is not usually red, then they may have a blocked tear duct. Occasionally, a modified fluorescein dye disappearance test may be done. A fluorescein dye is placed on your child’s eye.
What color is blocked tear duct discharge?
If the tear duct is clogged and not infected, you may notice a little white or yellow discharge in the eyes. The discharge may crust over during sleep and even seal the eyelid shut. Once your baby’s eyes become infected, you’ll see lots of yellow or green discharge that continues throughout the day.
Will breastmilk help a clogged tear duct?
Try placing a drop or two of breast milk directly into the inner portion of your baby’s eyes while they are closed— once they open their eyes, the milk will fall into the eyes and work to clear up any infection. Use this treatment a few times a day for a week or two or until their tear ducts have cleared up.
Can blocked tear duct heal itself?
Blocked tear ducts can resolve on their own, but your doctor may recommend massaging the tear duct to help it open. You can massage the outside of your child’s nose (from the eye to the corner of the nose) with a clean index finger.