Tear Duct Blockage

Comprehensive Care for Tear Duct Blockage: Restoring Comfort and Vision

At Aktif International Hospitals, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of tear duct blockage, also known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, in patients of all ages. Our ophthalmology team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and advanced treatment options to address tear duct blockage and restore comfort and vision for our patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tear duct blockage?

Tear duct blockage, or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, occurs when the tear drainage system is partially or completely obstructed, preventing tears from draining properly from the eye into the nose. This obstruction can lead to excessive tearing, discharge from the eyes, and discomfort.

What causes tear duct blockage?

Tear duct blockage can occur for various reasons, including:

Congenital factors: In infants, tear duct blockage is often congenital and occurs due to the incomplete development or obstruction of the tear drainage system.
Infections: Inflammation or infection of the tear ducts, often caused by bacteria or viruses, can lead to blockage.
Trauma: Injury to the face or eye area can result in damage to the tear ducts, leading to blockage.
Age-related changes: As individuals age, the tear drainage system may become less efficient, increasing the risk of blockage.
Other factors: Certain medical conditions, such as nasal polyps, tumors, or structural abnormalities of the nose or sinus, can contribute to tear duct blockage.

What are the symptoms of tear duct blockage?

Symptoms of tear duct blockage may include:

Excessive tearing (epiphora)
Watery or mucous discharge from the eyes
Crusting or stickiness of the eyelids
Redness and irritation of the eyes
Recurrent eye infections or conjunctivitis

How is tear duct blockage diagnosed?

Tear duct blockage is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:

Visual inspection of the eyes and eyelids
Evaluation of tear drainage by applying gentle pressure to the tear duct area
Fluorescein dye disappearance test to assess tear drainage
Imaging tests such as dacryocystography or nasolacrimal duct probing may be performed to visualize the tear ducts and assess the degree of blockage.

What treatment options are available for tear duct blockage?

Treatment for tear duct blockage depends on the underlying cause and severity of the obstruction. Treatment options may include:

Conservative management: In infants with congenital tear duct blockage, gentle massage of the tear duct area and warm compresses may help to open the duct over time. Most cases of congenital tear duct blockage resolve spontaneously within the first year of life.
Tear duct probing: In cases where conservative measures are ineffective, tear duct probing may be performed under local anesthesia to open the obstructed tear duct and establish proper drainage.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): In adults or older children with persistent tear duct blockage, DCR surgery may be recommended. During this procedure, a new drainage pathway is created to bypass the blocked tear duct, allowing tears to drain directly into the nasal cavity.
Balloon dacryoplasty: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a balloon catheter into the blocked tear duct and inflating it to widen the duct and restore proper drainage.
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (endo-DCR): An endoscope is used to visualize and access the tear ducts, allowing for a less invasive approach to DCR surgery.

When should I seek medical care for tear duct blockage?

If you or your child experiences persistent tearing, eye discharge, or other symptoms of tear duct blockage, it’s essential to consult an ophthalmologist for evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and restore normal tear drainage.

How can I schedule a consultation for tear duct blockage at Aktif International Hospitals?

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of tear duct blockage, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced ophthalmologists at Aktif International Hospitals. Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation, discuss treatment options, and develop a personalized care plan to address your needs effectively. Contact us today to book an appointment.

Author: Nuri Ceyhan

Nuri Ceyhan