Newborns often develop crusty eyes, a common concern for new parents. While usually temporary and harmless, understanding the causes and proper care practices is key to maintaining eye health and comfort.
Understanding Why Newborns’ Eyes Get Crusty
A primary reason for crusty eyes in newborns is a blocked tear duct, medically known as dacryostenosis. Tears produced in the lacrimal gland normally drain through small ducts into the nasal cavity. If these ducts are not fully open at birth, tears can accumulate on the eye’s surface, leading to a sticky or crusty discharge as they dry. This condition frequently resolves on its own within the first year of life as the duct matures.
Mild irritation can also cause a newborn’s eyes to appear crusty. This sometimes occurs due to eye drops or ointments, such as erythromycin, administered at birth to prevent certain infections. Environmental irritants like dust or mild cleansers can also cause a temporary reaction. These irritations typically result in a watery discharge that can dry into a crust.
Bacterial conjunctivitis, an infection of the conjunctiva (the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye), can manifest as crusty eyes. This type of infection often produces a thick, yellowish or greenish discharge, which can cause the eyelids to stick together, particularly after sleep. Common bacteria responsible for this in newborns include Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Another cause is viral conjunctivitis, which often accompanies common cold symptoms. This form typically presents with a more watery discharge initially, though it can become crusty as the fluid dries. Viruses like adenovirus are frequently implicated in these cases. The eye redness associated with viral conjunctivitis can be less pronounced than in bacterial infections.
A less common but more serious cause is Chlamydial conjunctivitis, also known as ophthalmia neonatorum. This infection can occur if the newborn is exposed to Chlamydia trachomatis during passage through the birth canal. It typically appears 5 to 14 days after birth and can lead to significant discharge and swelling, requiring specific antibiotic treatment to prevent potential complications.
Safe Cleaning Practices for Newborn Eyes
Maintain good hygiene when cleaning a newborn’s eyes. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your baby’s eyes to prevent infection.
To clean the eye, use sterile materials like clean cotton balls or a soft, lint-free cloth, with sterile water or saline solution. Boil water and let it cool to lukewarm, then saturate a fresh cotton ball. Avoid tap water, which may contain impurities.
Gently wipe the crusty eye from the inner corner, near the nose, outwards towards the ear. Use a new cotton ball for each wipe to prevent reintroducing discharge. If both eyes are affected, use a separate cotton ball for each eye to avoid cross-contamination. This clears discharge effectively without pushing it further into the tear duct.
Cleaning should be performed as needed, which might be several times a day, especially after the baby wakes up. The goal is to remove accumulated discharge and keep the eye clear. Be gentle and avoid rubbing the eye, as this can cause further irritation.
For cases of suspected blocked tear ducts, a gentle massage technique can be beneficial. Using a clean finger, apply light pressure to the area between the inner corner of the eye and the side of the nose. Massage downwards towards the nostril a few times a day, which can help dislodge any blockage in the tear duct.
Signs That Warrant Medical Attention
Parents should seek medical attention if a newborn’s eye crustiness persists or worsens despite regular cleaning. If the discharge remains thick, yellow, or green, or if the amount of discharge increases significantly, it may indicate a bacterial infection that requires professional evaluation. A healthcare provider can determine if antibiotic eye drops are necessary.
Significant redness of the white part of the eye (sclera) or swelling of the eyelids are concerning signs. These symptoms suggest inflammation or infection that extends beyond typical tear duct blockages or mild irritation. Any noticeable increase in redness or puffiness around the eye should prompt a medical consultation.
If the baby appears bothered by light, keeps an eye closed frequently, or cries when the eye area is touched, it could signal discomfort or pain. This sensitivity might indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a corneal abrasion or a severe infection. Observe these behavioral changes for timely intervention.
A crusty eye accompanied by other symptoms, such as a fever, poor feeding, lethargy, or a rash, warrants immediate medical assessment. These systemic signs suggest a more widespread infection or illness that could be linked to the eye condition. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent potential complications.
Any concerns about the baby’s vision, such as an inability to track objects, or if the crustiness follows any eye trauma, also necessitate prompt medical attention. While rare, these situations require a thorough examination by a healthcare professional to ensure proper eye development and address any injuries.