A child with goopy eyes can lead to build-up in the eyelashes or in the corners of the eye. Aside from the goopy eyes, other symptoms might also be present such as redness, discomfort or swollen eyelids.
Young children who are not capable of verbalizing their symptoms must be closely monitored for indications such as goopy eyes or eye rubbing to pinpoint any warning signs of an eye issue. Being familiar with the possible causes can help determine how to care for the child and when to seek medical care.
What are the possible causes?
An eye infection such as pink eye often triggers drainage. An infection can be triggered by bacteria or other pathogen such as fungus or virus. When it comes to cases of viral conjunctivitis, it develops if the child had a cold.
An allergic response to animal dander or pollen might also lead to goopy eyes. Babies and young children might have a clogged tear duct that can cause a dense drainage that often occurs from an infection in the blocked duct.
Management of goopy eyes
A viral infection such as those triggered by the common cold virus does not require any form of treatment. The infection and the ensuing symptoms clear up within a few days or as the virus resolves.
In case the child suffers from severe discomfort or if his/her eyes are swollen shut, medicated eye drops are required to ease the symptoms. Other forms of infection might necessitate antibiotics or antifungal medication.
A blocked tear duct can be cleared by massaging the area of the blockage. The doctor will perform where and how to massage the clogged duct in young children. In case the duct could not be cleared, the doctor might perform surgery to clear the blockage as well as prevent infections and other associated symptoms.
Cleaning
Goopy eyes eventually subside as the underlying condition resolves. Meanwhile, you can clear up any matter in the eyes of the child. Upon waking up in the morning, the discharge often dries up and clumps on the eyelashes which closes the eyes.
When cleaning the dried matter, moisten a clean towel or washcloth with warm water and hold it against the eye until the discharge loosens up. Slowly wipe it away using the washcloth or towel. You can gently wipe the goopy eyes throughout the day using a warm, clean damp cloth to clear up the goop.
Considerations to bear in mind
If the child has goopy eyes along with other symptoms of an eye issue, a doctor should be consulted. The exact cause of the condition will be determined and the appropriate treatment can be started. Avoid using any over-the-counter medication unless a doctor is consulted.