Tear Duct Obstruction
The eye operates through a specialized and sensitive system that enables us to perceive our surroundings. Tears play a crucial role in keeping the cornea moist and clean. These tears are categorized into two types: the first type is basal tears, which maintain ocular freshness throughout the day, with tear glands distributed across the eye’s surface. The second type consists of emotional tears, which are produced during periods of intense sadness or joy. When we blink, these tears drain through two tiny openings located at the inner corners of the eyes into the tear sac, subsequently moving to the nasal passages. However, tear ducts can become obstructed in one or both eyes, leading to improper drainage of tears and discomfort for the affected individual.
Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction
- Obstruction of the tear ducts is common in infants, with approximately 1 in 25 children experiencing congenital blockage at birth.
- Advancing age.
- Eye infections.
- Facial trauma.
- Presence of tumors.
- Cancer treatment medications.
Symptoms of Tear Duct Obstruction
- Increased tearing, with excess tears accumulating in the tear sac near the nose; this should indicate a blockage in the tear duct.
- Occurrence of purulent infections due to trapped tears within the tear sac.
- Constantly moist eyelashes, as tears may overflow onto the cheeks at times.
- Sticking of the eyelids together, especially in children, particularly noticeable in the morning due to mucus—a clear, viscous fluid that combines with tears. When normal tear flow is inhibited, this mucus can accumulate on the eye’s surface, causing adhesion of the eyelids.
- Redness of the eye, which arises from infection associated with fluid accumulation that appears yellow or greenish.
Treatment for Tear Duct Obstruction
- Regularly massaging the tear sac throughout the day, a common practice for treating tear duct obstructions in children.
- Utilizing antibiotics if an eye infection is present, typically available as drops or ointments.
- Surgical intervention for blocked tear ducts may be necessary if other treatment methods fail, or if the tear sac shows signs of infection, alongside redness and swelling of the skin between the eyeball and the nose. Various surgical techniques include probing and irrigation, silicone tube insertion, and creating an anastomosis between the tear sac and the nose.
Video on Tear Duct Obstruction in Children
Watch the video to learn more about tear duct obstruction in children: