The occurrence of dacryocystitis in newborns is extremely rare. This disease appears in about 2% of babies. The first symptomatic manifestations can be noticed already on the second day after birth: the inner corner of the eye swells and slightly reddens. These signs indicate the presence of inflammation in the area of the nasolacrimal duct.
But an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor after a personal examination, according to the results of which a decision is made on how to treat neonatal dacryocystitis. In most cases, getting rid of such an ailment is simple, so there is no need to panic. But it is worth knowing that in some situations you have to resort to surgical intervention.
The presence of inflammation indicates obstruction of the nasolacrimal canal, which violates the functional abilities of the eye. After all, this channel passes through a fluid designed to maintain the mucous membrane, to moisturize the eyeball and eliminate existing dust particles. After performing its functions, the fluid accumulates in the lacrimal sacs, and then enters the canal. Due to its obstruction, such a fluid stagnates in lacrimal sacs. This state of affairs is fraught with consequences, because over time pus forms, due to which the corner of the eye becomes inflamed and swollen.
A baby can get such a pathology after childbirth. There is a plug in the lacrimal sinuses of the fetus that prevents fluid from entering the lungs. With the birth of the baby, this cork should slip out. When this does not happen, the development of dacryocystitis in newborns is possible.
Treatment of dacryocystitis involves close attention to the condition of the eye and careful care for it. A special massage is recommended. A good effect is given to washing the eyes with a herbal decoction or a solution of furatsilin. Depending on the degree of the disease, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops. Massage to get rid of dacryocystitis is carried out in order to get rid of purulent fluid and open the lacrimal-nasal canal. As a rule, the doctor gives detailed instructions to parents on how to do it, and if necessary, demonstrates this personally. After all, going to a personal appointment with a pediatrician eight times a day does not work, which means that you need to learn how to massage yourself.
Washing miraculously affects the overall well-being of the baby, since after this procedure the mucous membrane is freed from purulent residues. In some cases, washing completely relieves the symptoms, but only for a while. It should be carried out very carefully and be extremely careful and accurate. A moistened swab is carried out from the outer corner of the eye to the inner.
With proper care, a full recovery occurs in two weeks. By this time, thanks to constant massages, the lacrimal canal opens and the fluid begins to leave, as it should. If for a month of constant washing and regular massages the signs of dacryocystitis of newborns do not pass, then you need to seek help from an ophthalmologist specializing in childhood diseases. One of the radical methods is piercing the channels to completely restore their functions.
The most common way to treat neonatal dacryocystitis is through sounding. This procedure is an operation, and quite painful, therefore, it is performed under local anesthesia. You should not be afraid of it, because the percentage of complications after surgery is negligible. In addition, timely access to a doctor helps to restore health after a course of conservative treatment. Then you do not have to resort to the use of radical measures.