Understanding Tear Duct Obstruction
A tear duct obstruction, medically known as dacryostenosis or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, occurs when tears cannot drain properly from the eyes down to the nose. This condition is common in infants but can also affect adults due to infections, injuries, or other causes.
What is Tear Duct Obstruction?
A tear duct obstruction is a blockage in the nasolacrimal duct that prevents normal tear drainage, causing excessive tearing and possible eye irritation. Tears normally drain through tiny openings at the eyelid corners (puncta) and travel through the nasolacrimal duct into the nose. When blocked, tears accumulate and may overflow or cause discharge and swelling.
Symptoms of Tear Duct Obstruction
- Excessive tearing
- Crusty eyelashes or eyelids
- Yellow or green discharge
- Swelling near the inner eye corner
- Recurring eye infections
Treatment & Management
Most infants experience spontaneous resolution by 12 months of age. Meanwhile, conservative care includes:
- Tear duct massage performed three times daily to aid drainage
- Antibiotic eye drops to control infection and discharge
If the blockage persists past one year, the following procedure may be recommended:
| Procedure | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Nasolacrimal duct probing | Soft probe passed through tear duct to clear blockage | Approximately 10 minutes |
Adults with obstruction usually require surgical intervention to restore tear flow.
Why Choose Bellevue Eye Care for Tear Duct Obstruction Care?
At Bellevue Eye Care, patients receive specialized care focused on tear duct health and comfort. You can expect:
- Board-certified eye care professionals experienced in pediatric and adult tear duct conditions
- State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical equipment
- Personalized treatment plans based on patient age and severity
- Compassionate care coordination for young children and adults