Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (CNLDO) is a common condition in newborns that affects the tear drainage system. It occurs when the nasolacrimal duct, responsible for draining tears from the eyes into the nose, is blocked. This condition can lead to excessive tearing, discharge, and eye irritation in infants. At Utsav Eye Clinic, Dr. Anand Kumar and his expert team specialise in diagnosing and treating CNLDO with precision and care, ensuring optimal eye health for your little ones.
Causes of CNLDO
CNLDO occurs due to an incomplete opening of the nasolacrimal duct at birth. Some common causes include:
Membranous Blockage: A thin membrane at the end of the duct fails to open naturally after birth.
Underdeveloped Nasolacrimal Duct: Some babies are born with a narrow or incomplete duct.
Infections or Inflammation: Swelling or infections can contribute to duct obstruction.
Congenital Abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the facial bones can sometimes lead to persistent blockage.
Symptoms of CNLDO
Most symptoms of CNLDO appear within the first few weeks of life. Parents should watch out for:
Excessive Tearing: Continuous watery eyes even when the baby is not crying.
Sticky Eye Discharge: Yellow or white discharge, especially after sleep.
Redness or Swelling: Mild irritation due to persistent tear accumulation.
Crusting Around the Eyes: Dried discharge forming crusts on the eyelids.
Recurring Eye Infections: Frequent conjunctivitis or eye infections due to stagnant tears.
Diagnosis of CNLDO
A paediatric ophthalmologist can diagnose CNLDO through a simple eye examination. In some cases, a fluorescein dye disappearance test may be performed to assess tear drainage. If symptoms persist beyond the first few months, further evaluation may be required.
Treatment Options for CNLDO
Fortunately, CNLDO is a treatable condition. The approach to treatment depends on the severity and persistence of symptoms.
1. Conservative Management (First-Line Treatment)
Lacrimal Sac Massage: Gentle massage over the tear duct (Crigler massage) can help open the blocked passage naturally.
Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses can reduce inflammation and facilitate drainage.
Eye Drops or Antibiotics: In cases of infection or excessive discharge, antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed.
2. Probing and Irrigation (For Persistent Cases)
If symptoms persist beyond 6-12 months, a probing procedure may be recommended. This involves passing a fine probe through the nasolacrimal duct to clear the obstruction. It is a quick and highly effective procedure performed under local or general anaesthesia.
3. Advanced Surgical Interventions
Balloon Dacryoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure using a tiny balloon to widen the duct.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): A surgical option for complex cases where other treatments fail.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While CNLDO often resolves on its own, parents should consult an eye specialist if:
Symptoms persist beyond 6 months.
The baby experiences frequent eye infections.
Redness, swelling, or discomfort worsens over time.
At Utsav Eye Clinic, Dr. Anand Kumar and his dedicated team offer expert diagnosis and treatment for CNLDO, ensuring that every child receives the best possible care. If your baby is experiencing persistent tearing or eye discharge, don’t wait, early intervention can prevent complications and ensure healthy vision.
📞 Contact us: 02235569270
🌐 Visit: www.utsaveyeclinic.com
📸 Instagram: @utsaveyeclinic
📘 Facebook: Utsav Eye Clinic
Comments
Post a Comment