How long may it take for nasal lacrimal ducts to open, potentially causing 'sticky eye'?

The opening of the nasal lacrimal ducts can be delayed in newborns, which is a common reason for what is often referred to as 'sticky eye.' This condition typically occurs due to a blockage of the ducts, which may take time to resolve as the ducts mature and open naturally. It is generally observed that this process can take about 1 to 2 weeks after birth. During this period, mothers are often advised on how to manage the secretions while waiting for the ducts to open.

The timing is important because while some infants might experience resolution of the 'sticky eye' earlier, it is common for many to enter the 1-2 week range before they show improvement. Other time frames suggested, such as several days, may be too short for the majority of infants, while more extended periods like 3-4 weeks or 1 month may not reflect the average timeline for resolution. Therefore, recognizing that 1-2 weeks is the most accurate reflection of the time it may take for the ducts to open helps in managing parental expectations and providing appropriate reassurance.