If you’ve noticed your newborn’s eye looks constantly watery, crusty, or "goopy," you aren’t alone. It can be alarming for a new parent to see their little one waking up with one eye stuck shut, but take a deep breath: this is incredibly common.
Known medically as , a blocked tear duct affects approximately 1 in 5 newborns . In most cases, it resolves on its own without medical intervention.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician regarding your child’s health. blocked tear duct baby home remedy
Many parents swear by using breast milk to treat eye issues. While clinical data is mixed, breast milk does contain antibodies (specifically IgA) that can fight bacteria.
This is the most effective way to loosen dried discharge and keep the area clean. If you’ve noticed your newborn’s eye looks constantly
Because the tears can’t drain, they pool in the eye, spill over the eyelid, and can lead to crustiness or a yellowish discharge.
Breast milk contains antibodies and antimicrobial properties. Caveat: No strong clinical proof, but it’s generally considered low-risk if used cleanly. In most cases, it resolves on its own
A blocked tear duct, or , is a common condition affecting about 20% of newborns . It occurs when the thin membrane at the end of the tear duct fails to open at birth, causing tears to pool and discharge to build up.
Doctor O'Donovan 1m Eye: Tear Duct Massage - Nationwide Children's Hospital Press firmly and move your index finger in short downward strokes 3 to 5 times. * Repeat these steps 3 times each day – morning, n... Nationwide Children's Hospital Eye: Tear Duct Massage - Nationwide Children's Hospital Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after the massage. Press firmly and move your index finger in short downward s... Nationwide Children's Hospital Blocked Tear Duct (Dacryostenosis) - Boston Children's Hospital If the duct still remains blocked, the duct opening can be enlarged with a small probe. The procedure may need to be repeated, but... Boston Children's Hospital 7 Blocked Tear Duct Home Remedy Solutions You Can Try Jun 16, 2025 —
Some parents use a drop of expressed breast milk in the corner of the eye.