Newborn Eye Crust: What's Normal And What's Not?

is it normal for newborns to have crusty eyes

Eye discharge is a common occurrence in newborns and is usually a result of blocked tear ducts, which can cause watery eyes and sticky or crusty corners. This condition, also known as 'sticky eye', affects about 1 in 5 babies and tends to clear up on its own as the tear ducts mature and fully open. In most cases, proper hygiene practices such as gently wiping away the discharge with a clean, damp cloth are sufficient to manage the issue. However, if the discharge persists, changes colour, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or sensitivity to light, it is important to consult a medical professional. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to unblock the tear ducts.

Characteristics Values
How common is crusty eye in newborns? Affects at least 6% of newborns
What causes crusty eye in newborns? Blocked tear duct, allergies, viral or bacterial infection
What are the symptoms of crusty eye? Watery eyes, sticky discharge, swollen eyelids, redness, tenderness, yellow or green discharge
How is crusty eye treated? Home remedies, antibiotics, antiviral medications, surgery
When to see a doctor? If symptoms persist or worsen, if there is a fever, if there is a lot of discharge, if the baby is constantly rubbing their eyes

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Blocked tear ducts, also known as 'sticky eye', are a common cause of crusty eyes in newborns

Blocked tear ducts, also known as sticky eye, are a common cause of crusty eyes in newborns. It is estimated that at least 6% of newborns, or 1 in 5 babies, experience this condition. It occurs when the end of the tear duct does not open properly at birth, leading to a buildup of mucus and discharge. Tears are unable to drain away from the eye's surface, resulting in watery eyes and sticky discharge in the corners.

The good news is that blocked tear ducts in newborns usually clear up on their own within several months of birth. In most cases, proper hygiene practices, such as gently wiping away the discharge with a clean, damp cloth or cotton pad, are sufficient to manage the condition. Additionally, parents or caregivers can try massage and warm compresses to relieve symptoms and open the ducts. However, if the blockage persists beyond the baby's first birthday, medical intervention may be necessary.

In some cases, a pediatric eye doctor may recommend a procedure called nasolacrimal duct probing, where a small probe is inserted into the infant's tear duct to open it up. A saline solution is then used to flush out any remaining debris. For more severe blockages, a surgical procedure called a dacryocystorhinostomy may be required to clear and open the tear duct.

While blocked tear ducts are a common cause of crusty eyes in newborns, it is important to monitor for any additional symptoms that could indicate an infection or other eye problems. These symptoms include swelling, tenderness, redness of the eye area, and yellowish or greenish discharge. If any of these symptoms are present, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

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Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the membrane covering the white part of the eye

It is common for newborns to have crusty or sticky eyes due to a blocked tear duct, which affects around 1 in 5 babies. This occurs when the tear duct is unable to drain away tears, causing a buildup of fluid and sticky discharge in the corners of the eyes. While this condition usually clears up on its own by the time the baby is one year old, it can sometimes lead to an infection such as conjunctivitis, or pink eye.

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the sclera (white part of the eye) and the inside of the eyelids. It is characterised by redness in the eye, swelling, tenderness, and a sticky or watery discharge that may be yellowish in colour. The infection often spreads from one eye to the other and can be caused by a blocked tear duct, chemical irritation from eye drops or ointments, or a bacterial or viral infection passed on from the mother during childbirth.

Conjunctivitis in newborns, also known as neonatal conjunctivitis or ophthalmia neonatorum, is considered a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Quick treatment with antibiotics can prevent permanent eye damage or blindness. Symptoms of conjunctivitis in newborns may include:

  • Redness and swelling of the eye area
  • Sticky or watery discharge, which may be yellowish
  • Swollen, tender, and red eyelids
  • Increased watering of the eyes

While conjunctivitis is typically not a serious condition and is very treatable, it is important to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

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Bacterial or viral infections can cause eye discharge in newborns

It is common for newborns to have crusty or sticky eyes due to a blocked tear duct, which affects at least 6% of newborns. This occurs when the end of the tear duct does not open properly at birth, causing tears to build up in the eye and resulting in a sticky discharge. This condition typically clears up on its own by the time the baby is one year old and can be treated at home by gently wiping away the discharge with a cotton ball or soft cloth soaked in lukewarm water.

However, bacterial or viral infections can also cause eye discharge in newborns. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that protects the front of the eye. It is characterised by redness in the white part of the eye, along with drainage or discharge, and puffy or tender eyelids. Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacterial or viral infections transmitted from the mother during childbirth, or by chemical irritation from eye drops and ointments used to prevent infections in newborns. In rare cases, red, itchy, and swollen eyes with pus discharge could indicate ophthalmia neonatorum (ON), a bacterial infection transmitted during childbirth if the birth canal is infected with chlamydia.

If you suspect your newborn has an eye infection, it is important to consult a doctor, especially if there are additional symptoms such as yellow or green eye discharge, swollen eyelids, or a bump on the inside corner of the eye. Eye infections in newborns often require medical treatment, including antibiotics or antiviral eye drops, and can have serious complications if left untreated.

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Allergies, although less common in newborns, can lead to eye discharge

It is common for newborns to have crusty or sticky eyes, and this is usually caused by a blocked tear duct. About 1 in 5 babies are born with blocked tear ducts, and this can cause tears to drain improperly, leading to watery eyes and mild discharge. This condition usually clears up on its own by the time the baby turns one, but a warm compress can help.

In some cases, crusty eyes in newborns may be a sign of an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin layer of tissue (conjunctiva) that covers the sclera, or the white part of the eye. It can be caused by a clogged tear duct, a bacterial or viral infection passed on from the mother during childbirth, or chemical irritation from eye drops and ointments used on newborns at birth. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include more swelling, tenderness, and redness of the eye area, yellowish discharge, and increased wateriness.

While less common, allergies can also lead to eye discharge in newborns. Seasonal allergies, such as pollen, pet dander, and house dust, can cause allergic conjunctivitis, resulting in itchy, watery eyes and mild swelling of the eyelids. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and can be managed with antihistamines, pharmaceutical relief options like lubricants and decongestants, or by limiting exposure to allergens.

If you suspect that your newborn's crusty eyes are due to allergies, it is important to monitor their symptoms and consult a doctor if needed.

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Eye injuries or foreign objects in the eye can cause watery discharge

It is normal for newborns to have crusty eyes due to a blocked tear duct, which affects at least 6% of newborns. This occurs when the end of the tear duct does not open properly at birth, causing tears to be unable to drain away from the eye's surface. Blocked tear ducts usually clear up on their own and can be treated at home with a warm compress. However, if the condition persists until the baby's first birthday, medical intervention may be necessary.

Now, onto the topic of eye injuries and foreign objects in the eye. A foreign object in the eye can be anything from a speck of dust to a piece of glass or a chemical substance. It is important to never try to remove a foreign object from the eye yourself and to always seek medical help. Symptoms of a foreign body in the eye include sharp pain, a feeling of something being in the eye, a scratchy feeling when blinking, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and bleeding in the eye.

If a foreign object enters the eye, it is important to remain calm and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Do not rub the eyes or attempt to remove the object with sharp objects like tweezers. Instead, try blinking repeatedly to induce tears, which can help flush out small debris. Alternatively, wash your hands thoroughly and fill a small container with water or saline solution. Immerse your eye in the liquid and blink to dislodge the object.

In some cases, medical intervention may be required to remove the foreign object. This may include the use of anaesthetic eye drops, eye vitals check, slit lamp examination, or imaging studies like a CT scan. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions for aftercare, including the use of prescribed eye drops or ointments.

To prevent foreign objects from entering the eye, it is recommended to wear protective eyewear during certain activities. This includes wearing safety glasses or goggles when working in dusty or windy areas, playing sports such as squash, working with chemicals, or using equipment like lawnmowers or hedge trimmers.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is normal for newborns to experience crusty eyes during their first few weeks of life. This is because the tear ducts are still developing, and it is a normal part of their eye development.

The most common cause of crusty eyes in newborns is a blocked tear duct. This occurs when the tear ducts don't fully open, making it difficult for tears to drain from the eyes. This results in a buildup of mucus and discharge.

In most cases, crusty eyes in newborns do not require medical treatment. Proper hygiene practices, such as gently wiping away the discharge with a clean, damp cloth or cotton pad, are usually sufficient.

If you notice that the crusty discharge persists, worsens, or changes colour, it is advisable to consult a medical professional as soon as possible. Other signs that may indicate the need for medical attention include redness, swelling, or irritation of the eyes, as well as excessive tearing, crusting, or sealing of the eyelids.

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