Blocked Tear Duct
Disease
When the openings that allow our tears to go into the tear duct haven't been
formed properly, it creates a blockage and prevents our tears from draining out.
This condition is known as Congenital Lacrimal Duct Obstruction.
This is a very common condition among newborns, as it mostly presents itself at
birth.
Blocked tear ducts exist in either one or both the eyes.
Not all blocked tear ducts resolve on their own. There is a close to 95% chance
that blocked tear ducts will get resolved in children below the age of 1.
Causes
Tears are formed in the gland placed below the bone of the eyebrow or the
lacrimal gland. Once produced, through two small openings located in the corner
of the eyelids they drain into a larger passage that takes them from the eye to
the inside of the nose.
This larger passage is known as the nasolacrimal duct or tear duct. Now, if the
openings that allow the tears to enter the nose are deformed, it leads to a
blocked tear duct.
As infants produce tears only several weeks after they're born, a blocked tear
duct may not be noticeable when your child is born. Blocked tear ducts are
noticeable if the baby cries or if in a place where it is cold or has windy
weather as this type of climate stimulates tears.
The kind of symptoms a child experiences in this eye condition differs.
Following are some of the most common symptoms children experience -
1. Tears draining down the eyelids and cheeks
2. Tears gathering together in the corner of the eyes
3. Constant rubbing resulting in redness of the skin
4. Mucus or a yellowish discharge in the eye
Diagnosis
While diagnosing a blocked tear duct, the doctor will take an account of your
child's medical history along with a physical examination.
Treatment
All blocked tear ducts tend to open on their own by the time the child turns 1.
However, if the tear duct continues to remain blocked there are various
treatment options that your child's doctor will prescribe -
1. Milking/Massaging the Tear Duct: This is a very common
method used to treat a blocked tear duct. Your child's physician will
demonstrate to you how this needs to be done. You will be required to do this
two to three times a day.
2. Antibiotics: If there are symptoms of infection, your
child's doctor will prescribe antibiotics used particularly in the eye for your
child.
Surgery
Another treatment option to unblock a blocked tear duct is to use a small probe
to enlarge the duct opening. In most cases this procedure is effective, but
sometimes may have to be repeated.
Takeaway
Tears are produced in the lacrimal gland, and help clean and lubricate our eyes.
Therefore, if you notice symptoms of blocked tear ducts or suspect that your
child could possibly have this eye condition, get your child diagnosed
immediately. A diagnosis will eliminate the possibility of a bigger eye problem
from occurring.