Excessive Eye Discharge in Infants: Is It Normal or a Sign of Milk Aversion?

Excessive eye discharge, aversion to milk?

Hello Doctor: My son is currently 2 months and 28 days old.
Previously, he had a lot of eye discharge from both eyes, and I would massage them daily.
One day, I noticed that the right eye stopped producing discharge, but the left eye still has a significant amount, similar to before.
Is this phenomenon normal? Additionally, he has recently shown less interest in drinking formula milk, even pushing the nipple out with his tongue as if he's playing, and he smiles while not seriously drinking.
Could this indicate that he is starting to refuse milk? Thank you for taking the time to respond to my questions!

Xinshou Mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/14

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello! Infants under one year old are prone to nasolacrimal duct obstruction, which can lead to increased eye discharge.
Gentle massage around the nasal wings can help.
If there is still significant eye discharge after the first year, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist, as a nasolacrimal duct probing procedure may be necessary.
The period of milk refusal typically occurs between 3 to 5 months of age, but some babies may show signs as early as 2 months.
Each "milk refusal period" usually lasts from one week to two weeks, which is considered normal.
As long as the weight gain is steady, approximately 20-30 grams per day, it is within the normal range.
Of course, it may also be a sign of playfulness.
If the weight is normal, there is no need for excessive concern.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Ren Sheng.

Reply Date: 2019/04/14

More Info

Excessive eye discharge in infants can be a common concern for many parents, and it often raises questions about whether it is a normal occurrence or a sign of an underlying issue, such as milk aversion. In your case, your son, who is 2 months and 28 days old, has experienced an increase in eye discharge, particularly in his left eye, while the right eye has shown improvement. Additionally, you mentioned that he seems less interested in feeding, which could indicate a potential aversion to milk.

Firstly, let's address the issue of excessive eye discharge. In infants, particularly those under one year of age, it is not uncommon to see increased eye discharge due to a condition known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, or a blocked tear duct. This condition can lead to tears not draining properly, resulting in excessive tearing and discharge. Massaging the area around the nose can sometimes help alleviate this issue. If the discharge persists beyond the first year of life, a consultation with an ophthalmologist may be necessary to explore further options, including possible surgical intervention to clear the blockage.

The fact that your son’s right eye has stopped producing discharge while the left eye continues to do so could suggest that the blockage is localized to the left eye. It is essential to monitor the situation closely. If the discharge is accompanied by redness, swelling, or any signs of infection, such as pus-like discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Now, regarding your concerns about milk aversion, it is important to note that infants can go through phases where they show less interest in feeding. This phenomenon, often referred to as "feeding aversion," can occur for various reasons, including developmental milestones, teething, or simply a temporary change in appetite. At around 2 to 3 months, infants are becoming more aware of their surroundings and may become distracted during feeding times. If your son is still gaining weight appropriately and meeting developmental milestones, this behavior may not be a cause for concern.

However, if he consistently refuses to feed or shows signs of distress during feeding, it may be worth investigating further. Some infants may develop a preference for certain types of formula or may react to the ingredients in the formula, leading to a temporary aversion. If you suspect that the formula may be causing discomfort, discussing this with your pediatrician could lead to a trial of a different formula, such as a hydrolyzed protein formula, which is easier to digest and may help if there is a sensitivity to standard formula.

In summary, while excessive eye discharge can be a normal occurrence in infants, particularly due to blocked tear ducts, it is essential to monitor the situation and seek medical advice if it persists or worsens. As for the feeding behavior, it is common for infants to go through phases of decreased interest in feeding, but if there are concerns about weight gain or feeding difficulties, consulting with your pediatrician is advisable. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that your son remains healthy and happy.

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