What should be done if a newborn develops eye discharge due to "heatiness" from drinking formula milk?

Sep 28, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
If a newborn develops eye discharge after drinking formula, it may indicate internal heat. It is recommended to give an appropriate amount of warm water between feedings to help relieve the heat. Medications for clearing heat and reducing fire may also be used under medical guidance, such as Xiao'er Chiqiao Qingre Granules or Xiao'er Qingre Ning Granules, which can help alleviate symptoms and reduce eye discharge. If the heat symptom is due to an allergy to the protein in the formula, it is advisable to promptly switch to a hydrolyzed protein formula or amino acid-based formula.

Feeding formula usually refers to bottle-feeding with powdered milk. If a newborn develops heatiness (internal heat) and eye discharge after drinking formula, this condition can be improved by increasing water intake, taking medication, or switching the formula.

1. Drink more water

It is recommended to give the newborn a small amount of warm water between formula feedings. This can help relieve heatiness and also help prevent constipation to some extent.

2. Take medication

Under a doctor's guidance, medications that clear heat and reduce fire symptoms may be used. Common options include Xiao'er Chiqiao Qingre Granules and Xiao'er Qingre Ning Granules. These medications can effectively alleviate heatiness and reduce eye discharge.

3. Switch formula

Heatiness in newborns after drinking formula may also be caused by an allergy to the proteins in the formula. It is advisable to switch promptly to a hydrolyzed protein formula or an amino acid-based formula.

When a newborn has eye discharge, parents can gently remove the secretions around the eyes using a clean cotton swab. Alternatively, they can gently clean the area around the eyes and head with gauze during bathing. Additionally, care should be taken not to overdress the baby; clothing should be adjusted according to the ambient temperature to avoid worsening heatiness symptoms.