Blocked Tear Duct: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment in Kharghar Navi Mumbai

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A blocked tear duct occurs when the drainage of tear liquid from your eyes is hindered due to issues in your nasal passageways. This can result in symptoms such as itchy, irritated, or watery eyes. It's worth noting that babies can be born with blocked tear ducts. In some cases, a clogged tear duct may resolve on its own, while others may require surgical intervention. Fortunately, with appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals can achieve complete relief from symptoms.



Overview

What is a blocked tear duct?

A blocked tear duct occurs when the tears that keep your eyes moisturized are unable to drain properly through a small opening in the corner of your eye. This drainage typically moves into your nose, where your body absorbs and eliminates it.

In the case of a blocked tear duct, there is a complete or partial obstruction (blockage) in the nasal passageways responsible for draining tears. If you're experiencing a blocked tear duct, you may notice symptoms such as itchy, irritated, and watery eyes. Another term for a blocked tear duct is nasolacrimal duct obstruction, with "lacrimal" referring to tears.


Understanding Blocked Tear Ducts: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Causes of Blocked Tear Ducts: Blocked tear ducts can affect individuals of any age and stem from various causes:

  1. Age: The natural aging process can lead to the narrowing of puncta.

  3. Congenital blockages: Some babies are born with underdeveloped or narrow tear ducts (dacryostenosis).

  5. Infection: Chronic sinus or eye infections can result in blockages.

  7. Injury: Even minor eye injuries, such as abrasions from small particles, can cause blockages.

  9. Tumors: Growth of tumors, particularly near the tear ducts, may lead to blockages.

Symptoms of Blocked Tear Ducts: The symptoms of a blocked tear duct can vary between adults and infants.

In Adults:

  • Watery eyes or excessive tearing.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Crusting around the eyelids.
  • Drainage, including mucus or pus around the eyes.
  • Redness in the white part of the eye.
  • Swelling near the inner corner of the eye.

In Infants:

  • Redness around the eye, often from rubbing.
  • Tears draining down the baby’s cheek instead of from the eye corner.
  • Tears pool near the corner of the eye without draining.
  • Yellowish discharge or mucus in the baby’s eye.

Diagnosis and Tests: To diagnose a blocked tear duct, healthcare providers may use various tests, including:

  • Tear drainage test: Dye is used to check if tears drain properly.
  • Eye imaging: A safe dye reveals blockages on X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
  • Irrigation and probing: Flushing out the tear ducts and probing with a small instrument.

Management and Treatment Options: Treatment for a blocked tear duct depends on the underlying cause:

  • Medications: Antibiotics or medicated eyedrops for infections.
  • Dilation, probing, and flushing: Enlarging the eye-opening and flushing out blockages.
  • Stenting: Placing a small tube to aid proper tear drainage for about three months.
  • Balloon catheter dilation: Inflating a balloon to clear blockages, often under general anesthesia.
  • Snip punctoplasty: Creating larger tear duct openings through small incisions, suitable for partial blockages.

Take control of your eye health! If you're experiencing symptoms or suspect a blocked tear duct, consult with your healthcare provider for a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan. Click here to learn more about blocked tear ducts and get a consultation or treatment from UTSV Eye Clinic!

Warm regards,

Utsav Eye Clinic

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