A , often called a Crigler massage , is a non-invasive technique used to open a blocked tear duct ( dacryostenosis ) in newborns . This condition is common, affecting approximately 5-6% of infants , and usually occurs because a thin membrane (the valve of Hasner) fails to open at birth, preventing tears from draining into the nose.
Repeat the downward stroke 5 to 10 times per session . Aim to do this 2 to 3 times a day . tear duct massage newborn
It’s common for newborns to wake up with a crusty, watery eye. While it can look like an infection, the usual culprit is a blocked tear duct (dacryostenosis). The good news is that a simple, gentle massage technique—often called the —can often clear the blockage at home. A , often called a Crigler massage ,
There are two common methods; ask your doctor which they prefer, but the "down and out" motion is most standard. Aim to do this 2 to 3 times a day
Massage helps by creating hydraulic pressure to push fluid through the blockage, helping to open the membrane naturally.
While a blocked tear duct is usually harmless and resolves on its own (often by the baby's first birthday), you should contact your pediatrician if you notice:
Look at the inner corner of your baby’s eye (near the nose). Feel for the small, bony ridge of the nose. Right next to it, in the soft crease of the eye corner, is where the tear duct sits.