Symptoms
The tear duct is the passage through which the tears drain off the eye. When it becomes
blocked or plugged, it may lead to:
- constant tearing
- redness and swelling in and around the eyes
- infection
- pain
The blockage may be due to:
- mucous buildup in the lacrimal duct at birth and in infancy
- ingrown eyelashes
- thick or hardened discharge from an eye infection such as conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- continued exposure to allergens that irritate the eyes
- obstruction due to airborne irritants especially in the work environment (i.e. dust,
chemicals, smoke or pollution) - other eye conditions, such as a stye, that cause the eye to have an unusual discharge
that can harden and plug the lacrimal duct.
Treatment
The ophthalmologist will examine the eye and may probe the tear duct to determine if a
blockage exists. Initially, antibiotic drops will be prescribed to treat the infection, and possibly
corticosteroid drops to treat any swelling. The blockage can often be worked loose by
massaging the tear duct along the side of the eye and down the nose.
If the blockage persists, the ophthalmologist may choose to probe the duct with a small metal
wire that can force the blockage loose, and the duct can be thoroughly washed out. This is
usually a painless procedure and can be performed in the doctor's office.
If the blockage continues to return over and over again, the ophthalmologist may suggest
surgery to implant an artificial tear duct called a Jones tube to permanently open the lacrimal
duct. A surgeon who specializes in ophthalmic reconstruction and plastic surgery usually
performs this surgery.
© Copyright 1999 Dialog Medical, Inc. All rights reserved.
