Thick, colored discharge from a baby’s eye is understandably alarming for any parent. This symptom, often appearing as a sticky, yellowish-green substance, suggests the tear drainage system or the eye’s surface is reacting to an irritant or blockage. The cause is frequently a common, treatable issue unique to infancy. Understanding the underlying reasons helps parents manage the symptom effectively and know when to seek medical support.
Blocked Tear Ducts
The most frequent non-infectious cause of persistent eye discharge in infants is dacryostenosis, commonly known as a blocked tear duct. This condition affects the nasolacrimal duct, the tube running from the corner of the eye down into the nose, which allows tears to drain. When this duct is blocked, tears accumulate in the eye socket and spill over the eyelid.
The blockage typically occurs because the Valve of Hasner, a thin membrane at the end of the duct, fails to open fully at or shortly after birth. Since tears cannot drain properly, the stagnant fluid creates a moist environment where normal mucous and debris collect. This trapped material thickens and often takes on a yellowish-green appearance, which is particularly noticeable upon waking.
This discharge is usually a build-up of natural fluids, not necessarily a bacterial infection. Approximately 5% to 10% of newborns experience this condition, which usually resolves spontaneously as the duct naturally matures and opens. The persistent wetness of the eye (epiphora) is the primary symptom.
Bacterial and Viral Eye Infections
Consistently thick, green, or yellow discharge throughout the day may indicate conjunctivitis, or pink eye. This is an inflammation of the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. The cause can be bacterial or viral, and the nature of the discharge offers clues about the specific type.
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with a profuse, pus-like discharge that is distinctly yellow or green. This infection often causes the eyelids to become matted or sealed shut, especially after rest. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Haemophilus influenzae are usually treated with prescription antibiotic drops or ointment. Bacterial pink eye is often spread through direct contact with contaminated hands or objects.
Viral conjunctivitis generally produces a more watery and less viscous discharge. This form is frequently associated with a common cold or other upper respiratory infection and is highly contagious. Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics; treatment is supportive, focusing on managing symptoms until the virus runs its course.
Urgent Warning Signs and When to Call the Pediatrician
While most cases of eye discharge are caused by common, manageable issues, certain accompanying symptoms warrant immediate medical consultation with a pediatrician.
Signs Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
- A fever, particularly in an infant less than 12 weeks old, as this can signal a systemic infection requiring prompt evaluation.
- The presence of a firm, red, and painful lump near the inner corner of the eye and nose, suggesting dacryocystitis (an infection of the tear sac).
- Any sign of severe swelling or redness that extends beyond the immediate area of the eyelid, potentially indicating a deeper tissue infection.
- Photophobia (extreme sensitivity to light) or if the baby refuses to open the affected eye, suggesting deeper eye structure involvement.
- A discharge that began within the first few days of life, especially if severe or accompanied by intense eye redness, which may indicate neonatal ophthalmia.
- Persistent symptoms that do not improve after a few days of home care, or any noticeable change in vision.
Safe Cleaning and Home Care Techniques
Maintaining strict hygiene is foundational for managing infant eye discharge at home and preventing secondary infections. Hands must be thoroughly washed before touching the baby’s eye to prevent germ transfer. The discharge should be gently removed using a soft, clean material, such as a cotton ball or gauze pad, moistened with warm water.
Wiping should always be done in one direction, moving from the inner corner of the eye outward toward the ear. Use a fresh, clean portion of the material for each single wipe to avoid drawing debris back across the eye’s surface. If both eyes are affected, separate cleaning materials must be used for each eye to prevent cross-contamination.
If a blocked tear duct is suspected, a specific massage technique can help open the membrane. Apply gentle but firm pressure with a clean finger over the tear sac, located beside the nose and below the inner corner of the eye. The finger should then be stroked downward toward the nose a few times. This “Milking” technique helps to push fluid through the duct.