Eye discharge in infants is a common occurrence that often prompts questions and concerns from new parents. This discharge, often called “eye boogers,” is usually harmless, but understanding its nature and knowing when to seek medical advice is important. This article will explore the reasons behind eye discharge in babies, differentiate between normal and concerning symptoms, and provide guidance on safe cleaning practices.
What Exactly Are Eye Boogers?
“Eye boogers,” or rheum, are a natural accumulation of substances in the eye. This discharge is composed of mucus, oils, dead skin cells, and sometimes dust or bacteria that the eye naturally clears away. During waking hours, blinking regularly spreads tears across the eye, washing away this debris through the tear ducts. However, while sleeping, the eyes do not blink, allowing this mixture to collect, especially in the corners of the eyes. The liquid component can evaporate, causing the discharge to dry and form the crusty bits commonly noticed upon waking.
Normal Reasons for Their Appearance
The most frequent reason for eye discharge in babies is related to the development of their tear drainage system. Babies often have narrow, maturing tear ducts, which can lead to tears and debris accumulating rather than draining properly.
A common cause is a blocked tear duct, medically known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This occurs when the tear duct, which carries tears from the eye to the nasal cavity, is partially or completely blocked, often due to an unopened membrane at birth. Tears then back up, leading to a watery eye and the appearance of white or yellowish discharge, particularly noticeable after sleep. Most blocked tear ducts resolve on their own, usually by the time a baby is one year old.
Minor irritants can also cause temporary, mild eye discharge. Environmental factors like dust, lint, or an eyelash can irritate the eye, prompting increased tear production and slight discharge as the eye attempts to flush out the foreign particle. This type of discharge is typically clear and resolves quickly once the irritant is removed.
When to Be Concerned About Eye Discharge
While some eye discharge is normal, certain characteristics or accompanying symptoms indicate a need for medical evaluation. A change in the appearance of the discharge can be a warning sign. Discharge that is consistently yellow or green, thick, or excessive, especially if it recurs throughout the day, suggests a potential issue.
Signs of irritation or discomfort in the baby’s eye or surrounding area should raise concern. These include redness of the white part of the eye (sclera) or eyelids, swelling around the eye, or increased sensitivity to light. If the baby frequently rubs their eye, appears in pain, or has difficulty opening their eye, it warrants attention.
Discharge accompanied by other signs of illness, such as fever, can signal a more systemic problem. If eye discharge persists or worsens despite gentle home cleaning, or if a tender bump or swelling appears near the inner corner of the eye, a healthcare provider should be consulted.
How to Safely Clean Your Baby’s Eyes
Safely cleaning your baby’s eyes can help manage symptoms and prevent irritation. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent germ transfer.
Use a clean, soft cloth or cotton ball moistened with warm water. Avoid using soap or any other cleansing solutions near the eyes, as these can cause irritation. Gently wipe from the inner corner of the eye, near the nose, outwards towards the ear.
Use a fresh part of the cloth or a new cotton ball for each wipe and for each eye to avoid spreading infection. Always wipe gently and avoid direct contact with the eyeball itself. Consistent, gentle cleaning a couple of times a day, especially after waking, can help remove accumulated discharge.
Common Conditions Requiring Medical Advice
Specific medical conditions can cause concerning eye discharge and necessitate professional advice. Bacterial conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white of the eye. Symptoms typically include significant redness, sticky yellow or green pus-like discharge that can cause eyelids to stick together, and sometimes swollen eyelids. This condition is contagious and usually requires antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
Viral conjunctivitis is another form of “pink eye” that often accompanies a cold or respiratory infection. It typically presents with red eyes and a more watery discharge compared to bacterial cases. While viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own, a doctor can confirm diagnosis and rule out other issues.
Some blocked tear ducts may require medical intervention if they do not resolve spontaneously, especially by 12 months of age. A pediatrician may demonstrate a massage technique to help open the duct by applying gentle pressure near the inner corner of the eye and stroking downwards. If conservative measures are insufficient, an eye specialist might recommend a minor procedure, such as probing, to open the blocked duct.
Other less common causes of eye discharge requiring medical assessment include allergic reactions, which might present with itchy, watery eyes and often other allergy symptoms like a runny nose, or a foreign object in the eye, which can cause irritation and discharge. Any persistent, worsening, or concerning eye discharge, especially if accompanied by pain, significant redness, or fever, should prompt a pediatrician consultation.