Blocked Tear Duct

What is a blocked tear duct?

The tear duct system drains tears and mucus from the eye into the nose. When this system does not function properly ("blocked tear duct"), the tears and mucus that are usually secreted by the eye do not drain well into the nose. This may create overflow tearing, where the tears run down the cheek and mucus collects on the eyelids and eyelashes.

What causes a blocked tear duct?


How common is a blocked tear duct in an infant?


How is this problem treated?


Why are antibiotics sometimes used?


When the fluid collects and pools in the tear system, the "normal" bacteria can multiply and create an infection. This can cause the normal "white" appearance of mucus to appear yellow or green. Antibiotics should be used as your physician directs


A procedure can be done to open the tear system. A "probing" involves passing a metal probe through the tear system into the nose. This procedure usually requires general anesthesia, as the child must be very still to allow this to be done safely. A single probing is "successful" 90 percent of the time. If the tearing persists after the first probing, the procedure may need to be repeated and possibly a Silastic tube (or stent) left in place in the tear system. Some ophthalmologists also use a balloon catheter to dilate the tear duct at the time of the probing.

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