Nasolacrimal Duct Stenosis - Tear Duct Stenosis
by Dr Brown

Nasolacrimal  Duct Stenosis is a common condition in newborns.  Although it might look like an "eye infection" with mucous, this condition is usually not something that requires antibiotics. The problem comes from the small diameter of the duct that drains tears from the eyes: the Nasolacrimal Duct.  Because this duct is small, it can easily get plugged and back up mucous into the eye.  Although this is a nuisance, it's usually not a problem.  As your child grows and the duct opens up wider, the tears drain much more easily and the problem goes away. 

It is important to let the doctor know if the white part of your child's eye begins to turn red or you are wiping away the mucous very frequently (every few minutes).  If your child has these symptoms, it might mean that he or she has a real eye infection and may need drops.

Please open up this pdf for more info:   nasolacrimal_duct_stenosis.pdf


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