Tear Duct Obstruction

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Tear Duct Obstruction

What is Tear Duct Obstruction?

Tear duct obstruction occurs when tears cannot properly drain from the eyes into the nasal cavity, leading to a blockage of the duct responsible for transporting tears. This obstruction can be categorized into two types:

  1. Acquired: The most common type, usually affecting adults. It may be caused by various factors like infections, conjunctivitis, and aging.
  2. Congenital: Affects infants and is typically caused by a membrane preventing tears from emptying into the nasal cavity.

What Causes Tear Duct Obstruction?

The main causes of tear duct obstruction include:

  • Aging: Tear duct obstruction becomes more common as people age.
  • Certain medications: Chronic use of eye drops or chemotherapy can contribute to blockage.
  • Congenital defects: Some individuals are born with a membrane blocking the tear duct.
  • Radiotherapy: Radiation treatment near the eyelid area can affect the tear ducts.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of tear duct obstruction include:

  • Blurred vision, especially while reading.
  • Watery eyes and excessive tear production, which may worsen in adverse conditions like wind, air conditioning, or heating.
  • Recurrent conjunctivitis: Frequent eye infections, occurring several times a year.
  • Skin irritation: Eczema or inflammation of the eyelid skin due to constant tear production.
  • Dacryocystitis: Inflammation or infection of the lacrimal sac, often causing fever, pain, and swelling.

Associated Treatments

Treatment for tear duct obstruction may include:

  • Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): A surgical procedure to create a new tear drain to bypass the blocked duct.
  • Tear duct explorations: Procedures to assess and treat the obstruction.
  • Jones tubes: A surgical solution where small tubes are inserted into the tear duct to allow tears to drain properly.

Conclusion

Tear duct obstruction, though often treatable, can cause significant discomfort and recurrent eye infections if left untreated. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to alleviate symptoms and restore normal tear drainage.