As infants begin teething, parents often observe new symptoms. A common concern is whether eye discharge is directly caused by this process. While teething brings discomfort and behavioral changes, it does not directly cause eye discharge. This misconception may stem from general fussiness or other unrelated symptoms occurring concurrently.
Teething Symptoms and Associated Discomfort
Teething typically begins around six months of age. Common signs include increased drooling, heightened irritability, swollen and tender gums, and an increased desire to chew on objects. These are natural responses to teeth pushing through the gum line.
Some babies might experience a slight temperature elevation, generally below 100.4°F (38°C), and changes in appetite or sleep. While these symptoms cause discomfort, they are localized to the mouth. Eye discharge, diarrhea, significant fever, or a runny nose are not typical teething symptoms. If these appear, they indicate a separate underlying issue.
Common Causes of Infant Eye Discharge
When an infant experiences eye discharge, several common causes are usually at play, none directly linked to teething. A frequent reason is a blocked tear duct, a condition where the drainage system for tears is not fully open. This can result in tears pooling in the eye and a watery, crusty, or sticky discharge, often noticeable in one eye. Many babies are born with obstructed tear ducts, and the condition usually resolves on its own by the time the child is around one year of age.
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pinkeye, is another cause of eye discharge. It involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis often presents with thick, pus-like yellow or green discharge and redness, potentially affecting one or both eyes. Viral conjunctivitis typically produces a watery discharge and can accompany common cold symptoms. Allergic conjunctivitis, caused by environmental allergens, leads to watery, itchy eyes, often alongside other allergy symptoms.
Common colds and other viral infections can also cause watery eye discharge. Nasal congestion, a frequent component of these illnesses, can affect tear drainage. This occurs because tear ducts drain into the nasal cavity, and congestion can back up the system.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Parents should seek medical advice if an infant’s eye discharge appears concerning or is accompanied by additional symptoms. If the discharge is thick, yellow, or green, or if it persists for more than a day or two despite gentle cleaning, a medical evaluation is advisable. Redness or swelling around the eye, particularly if it worsens, is another sign to consult a healthcare provider.
A fever accompanying eye discharge, especially a temperature significantly above 100.4°F (38°C), indicates a potential infection that requires prompt attention. Signs of pain or extreme discomfort, light sensitivity, or any concerns about the infant’s vision also warrant immediate medical consultation. While awaiting medical advice, gently cleaning the eye with a clean, damp washcloth or cotton ball, wiping from the inner corner outwards, can help manage the discharge. This basic hygiene is not a substitute for professional assessment.