What Age Do Babies Start Shedding Tears?

Newborns cry without producing visible tears because their tear glands are not yet fully developed. Most babies start shedding tears between two and three weeks of age. At this stage, their lacrimal glands begin producing enough tears to keep their eyes moist and sometimes roll down their cheeks. Understanding when babies begin to produce tears helps parents monitor healthy eye development and address potential concerns early.

Read on to learn more about when babies start shedding tears and factors influencing this important milestone.

Key Pointers

• Babies begin shedding tears around two to three weeks after birth when tear glands mature.
• Early or absent tear shedding may indicate underlying conditions such as blocked tear ducts or infections.
• Consult a pediatrician if tears appear too soon or if your baby does not produce tears after one month.

Why Don’t Newborns Shed Tears?

Newborn babies have lacrimal glands that lubricate their eyes but cannot produce enough tears to shed. These glands develop gradually, so newborns cry without visible tears. This is normal and expected during the first few weeks after birth. The tear ducts and glands need time to mature before producing tears that flow down the cheeks when babies cry.

When Do Babies Start Shedding Tears?

Most babies start shedding tears visibly between two and three weeks old. During this period, their lacrimal glands grow enough to produce tears that protect and hydrate their eyes. However, these tears may initially be minimal and increase gradually. Parents often notice tears rolling down the cheeks for the first time around the two-month mark, though tear production starts earlier.

What Causes Early or Excessive Tear Shedding?

If babies start shedding tears earlier than three weeks, it might signal an issue such as:

• Blocked Tear Ducts
  A blocked tear duct prevents tears from draining properly, causing watery eyes or tears spilling onto the face. About 6% of infants experience this at birth due to a membrane blocking the duct. Usually, it resolves naturally, but gentle massage and pediatric care can help open the ducts faster.
• Eye Infections
  Infections like conjunctivitis or upper respiratory infections can cause excessive tearing and redness. These conditions may require medical treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
• Other Conditions
  Rarely, glaucoma or genetic disorders can cause abnormal tear production. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to protect vision.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical advice if your baby:

• Produces tears before three weeks old.
• Shows eye redness, swelling, or pus.
• Has swollen eyelids or cloudy pupils.
• Does not shed tears even after one month.

Early medical intervention ensures your baby receives the necessary care for healthy eye development.

What Happens If a Baby Does Not Produce Tears?

Some babies take longer to shed tears, which usually is not concerning if they show normal growth. However, persistent absence of tears after one month might indicate conditions such as:

• Alacrima: A rare disorder causing very low tear production, often requiring long-term treatment.
• Dehydration: Dry eyes may indicate dehydration, especially in babies with diarrhea or feeding difficulties.

If your baby lacks tears despite being over a month old, consult a pediatrician promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why do babies cry without tears at first?
  Their tear glands are immature and produce only enough tears to lubricate the eyes, not to shed visibly.
• Is shedding tears the same as crying?
  No. Babies may shed tears due to irritants, but crying with tears generally begins after two to three weeks when tear glands mature.
• Why does my baby have tears in only one eye?
  A blocked tear duct in one eye can cause tears to pool and overflow on that side.

Shedding tears is a key sign of healthy eye development in infants. Most babies start shedding tears between two and three weeks, gradually increasing tear production. If your baby sheds tears too early or not at all after a month, consult your pediatrician for guidance.

For more insights and updates on child development, explore more news on this website to stay informed and support your baby’s growth.