Why do children have a lot of yellow, thick, and sticky eye discharge that can glue their eyes shut?

Generally, excessive, yellow, and thick eye discharge in children that may even stick the eyes shut could be caused by factors such as an incompletely patent tear duct, environmental irritants, conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, keratitis, and other conditions. If a child experiences discomfort, parents should promptly seek medical attention. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Incompletely Patent Tear Duct

Incomplete development of the tear duct in children prevents tears from draining smoothly, causing them to accumulate in the lacrimal sac. This can lead to bacterial growth and result in yellow, thick eye discharge. Gentle massage of the lacrimal sac area may help promote the opening of the tear duct.

2. Environmental Factors

Environmental irritants such as dust, smoke, and pollen can stimulate the eyes, causing excessive tear production and increased eye discharge in children. Reducing exposure to these irritants, maintaining fresh indoor air, and regularly cleaning the home environment are recommended.

3. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis caused by bacterial or viral infections can lead to inflammatory reactions, resulting in symptoms such as conjunctival redness, swelling, and excessive yellow, thick eye discharge in children. Light sensitivity and tearing may also occur. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, parents may administer medications such as levofloxacin eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or acyclovir eye drops for treatment.

4. Dacryocystitis

Dacryocystitis is often caused by blocked tear ducts or trauma. When a child's lacrimal sac becomes infected, it triggers an inflammatory response, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain in the lacrimal sac area, along with excessive eye discharge. Symptoms may also include tearing and tenderness upon pressing the lacrimal sac. It is recommended to follow medical advice and administer medications such as pranoprofen eye drops or gatifloxacin eye drops for treatment.

5. Keratitis

Extended contact lens wear, corneal abrasions, or foreign bodies in the cornea can lead to keratitis. When a child's cornea becomes infected, inflammation may develop, causing corneal edema and cloudiness, along with yellow eye discharge. Symptoms may also include tearing and vision loss. Parents should follow medical instructions to administer medications such as fluconazole eye drops, defibroted calf blood extract eye gel, or natamycin eye drops for treatment.

Additionally, children should avoid prolonged use of electronic devices such as televisions and mobile phones to prevent eye strain caused by overuse.