Do I Have Blocked Tear Duct?

Do you have excessive tearing?

Do you have redness of the white part of the eye?

Do you have recurrent eye infection or inflammation (pink eye)?

Do you have a painful swelling near the inside corner of the eye?

Do you have crusting of the eyelids?

Do you have mucus or pus discharge from the lids and surface of the eye?

Do you have blurred vision?

Do you have blood-tinged tears?

Do you have a fever?

Do your symptoms get worse after a cold or sinus infection?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a blocked tear duct. A blocked tear duct is a medical condition in which your tears cannot drain normally. Tears are made in the lacrimal glands that are located inside the upper eyelids. Tears drain from the eye into two small openings called the upper and lower puncta located in the inner corners of your eyelids. Then the tears enter the tear duct and are taken to the back of the nose and throat. This is why your nose runs when you cry.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a blocked tear duct. Tears are necessary to keep your eyes moist and healthy. A blocked tear duct refers to a partially or completely obstructed tear drainage system of the eye. Anyone can get it, but it is most common in newborns and it is usually harmless. However, a blocked tear duct in adults is frequently the result of an infection, an injury or a tumor. As you age, small tear openings, called puncta can narrow and cause blockages in the tear duct system. A diagnosis is based on an ophthalmic examination, tear drainage test, and X-rays.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a blocked tear duct. The tear duct is a tube that carries tears. The blockage can occur in any part of the tear duct, leading to the accumulation of tears and eye irritation. In most cases, a blocked tear duct is a condition that can be cured. Treatment depends on your age and the cause of the blockage. In case of infection, your doctor will prescribe you antibiotics. Sometimes a combination of treatments or procedures is needed to completely open a clogged tear duct. The surgery is a common treatment option.