Question

How should newborn dacryocystitis be treated?

Answer

For newborn dacryocystitis, gently massage and press the skin around the inner canthus of the baby’s eyes (i.e., the sides of the bridge of the nose) to perform massage. This action applies pressure to squeeze or flush out accumulated fluid, residual membrane, or cell fragments from the tear ducts. This operation should be gentle and soft, and should be performed under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, use antibiotic eye drops for massage 2-3 times a day. After a few days, effects can be seen with tears no longer overflowing. If massage is ineffective, the doctor may perform lacrimal duct irrigation to clear away secretions remaining in the lacrimal sac. If these methods fail to make the tear ducts clear, nasal lacrimal duct exploration may be required.