Patient's question:
I'm so worried. My baby has had a blocked lacrimal duct for over two weeks. The Tobradex hasn't worked, and the doctor says they need to flush the lacrimal gland. I'm really torn and don't know what to do.Doctor's answer:
Neonatal dacryocystitis is a common eye condition characterized by bulging eyes and even a thin, yellowish discharge. Every child suffers from this disease. Parents are very anxious. They ask what the illness is and whether it's a serious problem. In fact, neonatal dacryocystitis occurs due to blocked lacrimal ducts. The opening of the lacrimal duct in newborns is usually sealed with a membrane. Most newborns spontaneously rupture this membrane when they cry (usually between 3-4 weeks after birth), and the tear duct begins to open. However, some newborns have a thick membrane, or due to congenital lacrimal duct stenosis or nasal septum deformity, the tear duct becomes blocked, and tears accumulate in the lacrimal sac.