A tear duct obstruction, also known as dacryostenosis or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, is a common condition that affects more than five percent of all infants and is present at birth. Tears usually drain through small openings in the corners of the eyelids, known as puncta, and enter the nose through the nasolacrimal duct. When an obstruction exists, tears cannot properly drain from the eyes and may well up on the surface of the eye and overflow onto the eyelashes and eyelids. The eyelids may also become red and swollen with yellow or green discharge.
Many infants are born with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. The tear drainage system may not be fully developed or there may be an abnormality in the tear duct. A thin membrane often remains over the opening that empties into the nose in congenitally blocked tear ducts. Although more common in infants, nasolacrimal duct obstruction may also occur in adults and may be caused by infection, injury, or a tumor.
Symptoms of a Pediatric Blocked Tear Duct
A blockage of the tear duct may be characterized by the following symptoms:
- Increase in the amount of tears
- Discharge
- Crusty eyelids or eyelashes
- Recurring eye infections
- Swelling near the inside corner of the eye may also occur.
Treatment of a Pediatric Blocked Tear Duct
While most nasolacrimal duct obstructions clear on their own during the first year of life, certain measures can be taken to ensure that the eye is kept clean and free of infection, such as a tear duct massage performed three times a day or antibiotic eye drops to relieve discharge. If an obstruction does not clear up by the time the child is a year old, surgery may be recommended to relieve the obstruction. This procedure involves passing a soft probe through the tear duct and into the nose to open any obstruction within the path. The procedure takes about 10 minutes to perform. For adults, the blockage will need to be treated with surgery to clear the obstruction of the duct.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pediatric Blocked Tear Ducts
A blocked tear duct in infants can be caused by the tear drainage system not being fully developed or an abnormality in the tear duct structure.
A blocked tear duct, also known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, affects more than five percent of all infants and is present at birth.
Symptoms may include an increase in tear production, discharge from the eyes, crusty eyelids or eyelashes, recurring eye infections, and swelling near the inside corner of the eye.
While many obstructions clear on their own during the first year of life, treatments such as tear duct massage, antibiotic eye drops, or surgical intervention may be necessary if the obstruction persists.
Surgical treatment typically involves passing a soft probe through the tear duct and into the nose to open any obstruction within the path. The procedure is minimally invasive and takes about 10 minutes to perform.
If the obstruction does not clear up by the time the child is a year old, surgery may be recommended to relieve the obstruction and prevent further complications.
No, surgical intervention is typically considered if other conservative measures, such as tear duct massage or antibiotic eye drops, fail to resolve the obstruction. However, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual case and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Contact Us
For personalized consultation and treatment of pediatric blocked tear ducts with Dr. Kian Eftekhari at Eyelid Center of Utah, schedule an appointment today. Our dedicated team is here to address any concerns and provide the best possible care for your child’s eye health. Contact us now to take the first step towards relieving your child’s symptoms and ensuring their comfort and well-being.