Does breastmilk help eye discharge?

The Role of Breast Milk in Treating Eye Discharge in Infants
In recent years, the use of breast milk as a home remedy for various ailments has gained attention, particularly among new parents. One area of interest is its potential effectiveness in treating eye discharge in infants. Eye discharge can be a common issue in babies, often resulting from conditions like conjunctivitis or blocked tear ducts. The question arises: does breast milk really help?
Scientific Insights
A study published in a reputable medical journal found that breast milk (BM) is as effective as traditional saline solution (OS) in treating eye discharge in infants aged six months and younger. The research indicated that both treatments led to similar improvements in the condition, suggesting that breast milk could be considered a viable first-line treatment for this issue. This finding aligns with anecdotal evidence from parents who have used breast milk to soothe their babies’ irritated eyes.
Moreover, another source highlighted that breast milk might not only alleviate symptoms but could also serve as a good solution for eye irritation. This is particularly relevant for parents seeking natural remedies, as breast milk is readily available and free from the preservatives often found in commercial eye drops.
Cautions and Considerations
While the use of breast milk for eye discharge appears promising, it is essential to approach this remedy with caution. Experts note that the effectiveness of breast milk can vary depending on the underlying cause of the eye discharge. For instance, if the discharge is due to a viral infection or a blocked tear duct, breast milk may not be necessary, as these conditions often resolve on their own.
Additionally, there are concerns regarding the safety of using breast milk in the eyes. Some reports have warned that improper use could lead to complications, such as corneal damage, particularly if the milk is contaminated. Therefore, while breast milk may provide relief for some infants, it is crucial for parents to consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk has shown potential as an effective remedy for eye discharge in infants, comparable to traditional treatments. However, parents should remain vigilant and consult healthcare providers to ensure the safety and appropriateness of this home remedy. As with any treatment, understanding the underlying cause of the eye discharge is vital for effective management.

Does breast milk help goopy eyes?

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.

Can I put breastmilk in my baby’s eye?

Medical Research Concerning Breast Milk
However, breast milk is not effective against all bacterial eye infections. In addition, it typically does not eradicate the infection, but only seems to suppress it. If your infant’s eye infection goes untreated, they could develop long-term eye damage.

Can I put breastmilk on my baby’s eye?

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 to help baby goopy eye?

Treatment

1. Wash your hands.
2. Wet a sterile cotton ball with saline solution.
3. Gently wipe your baby’s eye from the inside corner to the outside corner. Use a new cotton ball for each wipe.
4. Dry the eye using a different cotton ball, wiping from the inside corner out.
5. Wash your hands.

What is good for gunky eyes?

Wash your eyelids with clean water. Boil the water and let it cool down, then gently wipe your eyelashes with a clean cotton wool pad to clean off crusts (1 piece for each eye). Hold a cold flannel on your eyes for a few minutes to cool them down.

What to do if baby has yellow discharge from eye infection?

Antibiotics. If an infection is causing eye discharge, the newborn will need prompt medical attention. To treat cases of infectious discharge, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Will breast milk help 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.

How to treat a newborn gunky eye?

You may need to clean your baby’s eyes if they’ve become crusted and your baby has trouble opening them. Wash your hands. Wet a sterile cotton ball with saline solution. Gently wipe your baby’s eye from the inside corner to the outside corner.

What helps with eye discharge?

Warm compresses help to reduce the sticky buildup of discharge on the eyelids or crust that forms on your eyelashes, while cold compresses help to relieve itching and inflammation. If you have allergic conjunctivitis, it’s important to avoid rubbing the eye, since this can worsen your symptoms.

Can breastmilk help mucus?

Try breast milk drops
Similarly to saline drops, breast milk can help break up mucus, and its antiviral properties may help treat the cold.