Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for blocked tear ducts

by Dr. Herminia Waelchi PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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For adults with partially narrowed puncta, your doctor may dilate the puncta with a small probe and then flush (irrigate) the tear duct. This is a simple outpatient procedure that often provides at least temporary relief. Stenting or intubation. This procedure is usually done using general anesthesia.Mar 9, 2021

Medication

  • difficulty concentrating
  • feeling like you can't keep your eyes open
  • sensitivity to light

Procedures

  • A dacryocystorhinostomy is done by creating a bypass communication between the tear duct and the nose, which allows the tears to drain.
  • Laser dacryocystorhinostomy involves an endoscope that has a laser that can cut through body tissues. ...
  • A fistula is then inserted in the duct, serving as the passageway of the tears.

Self-care

You can treat this condition at home by massaging the area between the eye and the bridge of the nose. Regular cleaning and warm compresses might also help to unblock the tear ducts. When home remedies are unsuccessful, surgical procedures might be necessary. A warm compress can be used to treat blocked tear ducts.

How can you treat a blocked tear duct?

Use antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Eye drops and ointments are usually prescribed first for blocked tear ducts. You will need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. To use the eye drops, shake the bottle well, tilt your head back, then place the recommended number of drops into the eye.

How is surgery done to treat blocked tear ducts?

How do you unblock a tear duct?

How can blocked tear duct be treated?

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How do you get rid of a blocked tear duct?

For a narrowed punctum, your doctor can use a small probe to widen it. They'll then flush or irrigate the tear duct with a saline solution. This is an outpatient procedure. If an injury caused the blockage, your best approach may be to wait several weeks to see if it heals on its own without any treatment.

How can I unclog my tear duct naturally?

Place a clean index finger between the inner corner of the eye and the side of the nose. Gently slide the index finger downwards while massaging the side of the nose. You can repeat it around 10 times in the morning and 10 times at night. You may also use warm compresses to relieve itching and irritation.

What happens if a blocked tear duct goes untreated?

Once in the nose, tears are reabsorbed. A blockage can occur at any point in the tear drainage system, from the puncta to your nose. When that happens, your tears don't drain properly, giving you watery eyes and increasing your risk of eye infections and inflammation.

How long does it take for a blocked tear duct to clear?

Most blocked tear ducts heal on their own. This often happens by the time your child is 1 year old. If the duct is still blocked after your child is 1 year old, he or she may need treatment.

Do warm compresses help blocked tear duct?

Symptoms of a swollen tear duct include excessive tearing, eye discharge, chronic nasal infections, or injury. Self-care measures such as warm compresses are often effective for unblocking the duct. If they don't work, then antibiotics or minor surgery may be necessary.

What causes a blocked eye duct?

Harmless debris or small particles get stuck in the duct. A broken nose or other injury leaves scar tissue that presses on the tear duct. Small, rounded growths called polyps form in the nose and block the duct. An infection in the eye or nose causes swelling around the tear duct.

Is tear duct surgery painful?

Tear Duct Probing This is a pain-free procedure and, most of the time, undoes the blockage. For a few hours after tear duct probing, some children have blood-colored fluid drain from the eye. Using antibiotic eye drops or ointment a few times a day for about a week can help prevent an infection.

Will a blocked tear duct fix itself in adults?

You may have itchy, irritated or watery eyes. Sometimes, babies are born with blocked tear ducts. A clogged tear duct may heal on its own, or you may need surgery. With treatment, most people experience total symptom relief.

Can you go blind from a blocked tear duct?

Significant discomfort, impaired vision, and an increased risk of infection can all result from a blocked tear duct. Adults experiencing the symptoms of a blocked tear duct should consider seeing a doctor if: watery eyes are interfering with everyday activities.

Where do you massage a blocked tear duct?

Place the tip of your index finger against the side of the child's nose, next to the affected eye (Picture 2). Press firmly and move your index finger in short downward strokes 3 to 5 times. Repeat these steps 3 times a day: morning, noon and night.

When should I take my baby to the doctor for a blocked tear duct?

Blocked tear ducts in babies generally resolve themselves. It is essential to see a doctor if an infant has very watery eyes, discharge, or appears to be tearing an unusual amount without any apparent cause.

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