Vision Center - Online Vision Guide

The tears normally move towards the nose where they drain into the tear duct system through an opening (lacrimal punctum). The tears eventually drain into the nose through the naso-lacrimal duct. In infants, there may be a partial or complete blockage of the tear duct system, which can be seen by continual overflow of tears from the eye. Gradually this condition changes on its own or with massage of the lacrimal duct. In adults, the tear duct system may become obstructed from nasal infection or severe conjunctivitis.

Obstruction of the tear duct is caused by :

Inherited abnormality.

Bacterial infection of the duct.

Sinus or nasal infection, especially the long standing infections.

Eye infection.

Fracture of the nose or bones of the face.

Massage of the lacrimal sac area for 2 to 3 months as instructed by the eye specialist may help to open the tear duct.

Congenital tear duct blockage often clears by 6 months of age.

If prolonged treatment is not opening the tear duct, a minor surgery such as dacryocystorhinostomy has to be done to open the duct.

How will I know that my baby has a blocked tear duct ?
If one or both eyes of the baby appears to water continuously over a period of several days or if there is mucus like discharge, swelling or redness, he or she might be having a blocked duct. The baby may also be experiencing eye discomfort or pain.

Why should my child be taken for treatment ?
If you suspect a blocked tear duct, show your child to a child specialist. If left untreated tears can accumulate in the lacrimal or tear sac, which can become infected by bacteria. The infection can spread into adjacent areas such as the sinuses or adenoids. A physical examination of the child's eyes will be necessary to diagnose the problem and treat the underlying cause.