Question
The newborn’s excessive crying has been discovered to have a blocked nasolacrimal duct after examination. Although it has been flushed, there has been no improvement. Inquire whether it is appropriate to flush a one-month-old baby and whether it may cause harm to the eyes.
Answer
According to the situation, excessive crying in newborns may be due to an incomplete regression of the embryonic remnant membrane at the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct, leading to obstruction and the accumulation of tears and bacteria in the lacrimal sac. Treatment can include applying Tobramycin eye drops and performing massage before applying the medication. Before massaging, hands should be washed and fingernails trimmed. The baby should maintain a lying position, with someone else holding the head and limbs steady, and the operator pushing upwards from the root of the nose along the nostril wing.