Symptom: Identifiable Blockage in Tear Duct
When there is a visible blockage in the tear duct, an ophthalmologist can diagnose it through a manual probing of the duct. During the examination, the ophthalmologist will assess the condition of your eyelids and palpitate the punctum, the area between the eye and the nose. It is also worth noting that a clogged tear duct can lead to recurrent eye infections, such as pinkeye. In such cases, you may observe the presence of pus or crust at the corner of the affected eye along with excessive watering, known as Epiphora. Additionally, a clogged tear duct can be a result of injury or trauma. Your physician will inquire about any recent trauma to your face and eye to help determine the cause.
Treatment Options for Clogged Tear Duct in Infants
When it comes to treating clogged tear ducts in babies, there are several effective methods available. One common approach is gentle massage combined with the use of a warm compress. By applying a circular motion and gently pressing on the affected area, this technique helps to clear any buildup of thickened tears and promote clear drainage.
Typically, as babies grow, their tear ducts naturally open up as their drainage system develops. However, if a tear duct fails to open on its own, intervention from a pediatrician may be necessary. In such cases, the doctor will perform a procedure called duct probing to remove the blockage. This involves inserting a thin metal probe into the affected duct(s) to open up the tissue. It is important to note that after the procedure, some bloody fluid drainage may occur for a few hours.