Question
Does red and swollen eyelids in newborns affect their eyes?
Answer
Soon after birth, if a newborn frequently has tears and is prone to crying, it may indicate chalazion, an acute suppurative infection of the sebaceous gland and meibomian gland, which can be categorized into external chalazion and internal chalazion. Parents should avoid self-squeezing the affected area to prevent complications such as orbital cellulitis. It is recommended to seek treatment from a regular ophthalmologist promptly, which may involve eye drops or surgery. Moreover, since the causes of pediatric external eye diseases are diverse, it is essential to determine the cause before treatment and follow the principle of symptomatic treatment. Daily care measures are also indispensable, such as reducing the intake of spicy foods and consuming foods beneficial for eye health.