Newborn's eye watering: is massage enough?

Constant eye watering in your baby's one eye but no redness is typically a blocked tear duct. Newborns and small babies get this often, and it usually resolves on its own or with massage.

How to do Tear Duct Massage (Crigler massage):

1. Wash your hands and trim your nails short.

2. Lay your baby on his back or in a position where you can keep his head still.

3. Place the tip of your index finger on the small bony bump at the inner corner of the watering eye (near the nose).

4. Gently but firmly massage downward toward the nose, like a sweeping motion. The goal is to push the fluid through the tear duct to open any blockage.

5. Do this 2-3 times daily, about 5-10 reps each time. You don't need to press hard—gentle but deliberate pressure is enough.

This massage usually doesn't bother babies; doing it gently and patiently is all you need. After massage, you might see more discharge or saliva-like fluid—that's normal.

When to see a doctor:

• Watering doesn't resolve by 12 months,
• Redness, swelling, or yellow-green discharge develops,
• You're doing the massage correctly but see no change.

It's also a good idea to ask your pediatrician before starting; they can show you the right technique and assess the situation.