Does breastmilk clear babys eye discharge?

Does Breast Milk Clear Baby’s Eye Discharge?
Breast milk has long been touted by some parents as a natural remedy for various ailments, including eye discharge in infants. Recent studies and expert opinions shed light on the efficacy of this practice, particularly for conditions like conjunctivitis or blocked tear ducts.
Efficacy of Breast Milk
Research indicates that breast milk can be effective in treating eye discharge in infants. A study published in a medical journal found that breast milk (BM) was no less effective than standard ophthalmic solutions (OS) in infants aged six months or younger suffering from eye discharge. The results suggested that breast milk could be considered a viable first-line treatment for this condition. This aligns with findings from another study, which noted that both breast milk and conventional treatments worked equally well in alleviating eye discharge.
Mechanism of Action
Breast milk contains antibodies and other immune-boosting properties that may help combat infections. When applied as eye drops, it is believed to provide a soothing effect and may help reduce irritation. However, it is important to note that while breast milk can suppress symptoms, it does not necessarily eradicate the underlying infection. This means that relying solely on breast milk for treatment could lead to complications if the infection is not properly addressed.
Considerations and Recommendations
While breast milk can be a helpful remedy for minor eye irritations, it is crucial for parents to understand the underlying causes of eye discharge. Conditions such as blocked tear ducts are common in newborns and often resolve on their own without treatment. In cases where eye discharge is symptomatic of an infection, such as conjunctivitis, seeking medical advice is essential. Experts caution against using breast milk as a substitute for professional medical treatment, especially if the discharge persists or worsens.
In summary, breast milk can be an effective and natural option for treating mild eye discharge in infants, particularly in the early stages. However, parents should remain vigilant and consult healthcare professionals to ensure that any serious underlying issues are addressed appropriately.

Does breast milk help a baby with mucus?

Breast milk in the nose
Some people feel that putting breast milk in a baby’s nose works just as well as saline drops to soften mucus. Carefully put a little milk right into your baby’s nose while feeding. When you sit them up after eating, the mucus will likely slide right out.

Can breastmilk clear a clogged tear duct?

The antibodies in breastmilk can help fight off infections. Putting a few drops of breast milk can help clear your baby’s blocked tear duct, can help get rid of diaper rash, and even help with ear infections. It can even help adults too.

How do you clear mucus from a baby’s eye?

Wet a sterile cotton ball with saline solution. Gently wipe your baby’s eye from the inside corner to the outside corner.

How do you treat gunky eyes in babies?

If your child is getting a lot of sticky discharge from his/ her eye(s) during the day, you can help by massaging the tear sac: roll your little finger firmly just between the inside corner of the eye and the nose for a minute while your baby is breast or bottle feeding.

Can breast milk be used as eye drops for babies?

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that BM is no less effective than OS in infants with eye discharge aged ≤6 months. The results suggested that the use of breast milk as eye drops could be considered as a first-line treatment for infants aged ≤6 months with eye discharge.

Can nursing clear a clogged duct?

Breastfeeding and expressed breast milk feeding are safe and recommended, even with antibiotic therapy. It’s safe to continue breastfeeding if you have mastitis or a plugged duct. Breastfeeding helps clear the infection or ductal system.

Does breast milk help baby eye discharge?

However, it is important to note that breast milk is not a sufficient treatment for eye infections or other possible causes of eye discharge.

Can breast milk help an irritated eye?

In the study, participants whose babies had eye discharge were told to apply either breast milk or antibiotic drops to their baby’s eyes. The researchers found that both remedies worked equally well to clear up eye discharge in babies, and they suggested that breast milk might be a good solution for eye irritation.

Is breast milk good for baby eyes?

Filled with antibodies, vitamins, and minerals breastmilk can work wonders on your young infant’s body. Try placing a drop or two of breast milk directly into the inner portion of your baby’s eyes while they are closed— once they open their eyes, the milk will fall into the eyes and work to clear up any infection.

How do you clean a baby’s sticky eye with breast milk?

There is also evidence to support using breastmilk to clean your baby’s eye. This will not cause any harm to your baby.