Why do babies always have tears in their eyes?

Neonatal dacryocystitis is the most common cause of tears in babies, usually appearing a few days or weeks after birth, often when parents notice that their baby is always tearing, or has a lot of discharge. The cause is the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct due to Hasner’s membrane not being absorbed at birth. In rare cases, it can also be caused by conjunctivitis, or secretions blocking the nasolacrimal duct. The lacrimal sac is examined by pressure and a mucopurulent secretion can be seen spilling out of the lacrimal duct. The preferred treatment for neonatal dacryocystitis is lacrimal sac massage. Some children can be squeezed by massage to break through Hasner’s membrane and achieve therapeutic effect. The specific massage method is: use the index finger to squeeze the tear sac from above to below (nasolacrimal duct), while pressing the tear duct, squeeze the secretion downward and break through the residual membrane. After squeezing, put antibiotic drops into the eye. Massage can be done daily, pay attention to the direction and strength of the massage, do not squeeze the eye and surrounding tissues. If you are not sure of the method, you can go to the ophthalmology department to consult a specialist. If massage and squeezing are unsuccessful, tear duct flushing or lacrimal duct exploration under general anesthesia may be an option.