From
crusting to redness, baby peeper problems can plague nervous new parents.
Fortunately, most are no big deal. Here's what to watch for:
Clogged tear ducts
It's common for newborn tear ducts to clog and for tears to overflow onto a baby's
cheeks. The remedy: Apply a warm compress to the inner corner of the eye and
massage it gently. If you see crusting when your baby wakes up, just wipe it
away with a damp cotton ball. But if pus drainage and crusting last throughout
the day, call your doctor.
Crossed eyes
Many babies cross their eyes because the muscles that control them are still
weak. However, if your child is 4 months old or older and frequently cross-eyed,
or if it occurs at the same time each day or during the same activity, an eye
exam is warranted.
Infection
If the whites of one or both of your tot's eyes are very red, and perhaps
crusty or draining pus, he may have conjunctivitis (pinkeye), a contagious
bacterial infection. Call the doctor ASAP. A prescription topical ointment usually
relieves it in just a couple of days.
