Blocked tear duct

Blocked Tear Duct

A blocked tear duct is a condition primarily characterized by an obstruction within the tear duct system that prevents tears from draining normally from the eye surface into the nose. This condition can affect individuals of any age but is most commonly observed in newborns and older adults. The medical term for a blocked tear duct is dacryostenosis.

Causes

The causes of a blocked tear duct can vary based on the age of the affected individual. In newborns, the condition is often due to the incomplete development of the tear duct system, specifically the failure of the membrane at the end of the tear duct to open after birth. In adults, causes can include infection, inflammation, injury to the tear ducts, or tumors.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a blocked tear duct include:

• Excessive tearing or epiphora, resulting in watery eyes
• Recurrent eye infections or conjunctivitis
• Painful swelling near the inside corner of the eye
• Blurred vision
• Discharge from the eye

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a blocked tear duct involves a comprehensive eye examination. Tests may include:

• Dye disappearance test
• Fluorescein eye drops test
• Lacrimal scintigraphy
• Dacryocystography

Treatment

Treatment for a blocked tear duct depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Options include:

• Massage for infants, which can help open the membrane
• Antibiotics for infection
• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), a surgical procedure to create a new route for tears to drain
• Balloon catheter dilation, a less invasive procedure for adults
• Intubation of the tear duct with a tiny tube to open the blockage

Prevention

Prevention of a blocked tear duct in adults may involve managing risk factors such as controlling inflammation and avoiding eye injuries. For newborns, there is no known prevention as the condition often resolves on its own.

See Also

• Dry Eye Syndrome
• Conjunctivitis
• Eye Infection