by Administrator
21. December 2011 09:55
Tears are important element of eye functioning as they help in protecting and lubricating the eyes. They flow down to the eye surface and then get drained into the tiny holes in the corners of your eyes called ‘puncta’. Tear ducts are the small tubes that stretch from the eyes to the nose, and are instrumental in tear drainage. If your tear ducts get blocked, they cannot be drained properly as they normally would do. In case tear ducts remain blocked for a long period of time, the sac gets filled with fluid and becomes swollen and inflamed. There is a higher probability of the eyes getting infected thereby leaving your eyes watery and irritated.
Causes of Blocked Tear Duct
Blocked tear ducts are generally caused by a partial or complete blockage in the tear drainage system. It is very common in the new born babies and gets cleared usually in the first year itself. They have a very sensitive thin tissue at the end of the tear duct that fails to open in the normal way which results in the blocked tear duct. It may also happen due to infections or abnormal growth of the nasal bone. Adults can also witness a blocked tear ducts in case of a severe infection, injury or a tumor in their eyes. It may also be caused due to the thickening of the tear duct lining, nasal or sinus problems, injuries to the bone and tissues around the eyes.
Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct
Among the various symptoms of the blocked tear duct, the first and foremost is the excessive watering of the eye. You may also witness redness and painful swelling around the eye or nose. The yellow colored mucus can build up in the corner of the eyes and in severe cases; the infection may also lead to blurred vision. These symptoms may get worse if you get an infection, such as a cold or sinus. These symptoms are more visible after getting exposed to wind, cold, and sunlight.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The blocked tear duct can be diagnosed through its symptoms and physical exam of the eye. Various tests of the eye can be used to measure the amount of tears and to see whether tears are draining normally from the eyes. Antibiotics are usually given if signs of infection appear. Probing is used for small babies and children and some people may need surgical treatment for structural problems for abnormal growths.
To know more about the various eye diseases and for seeking consultation or for any kind of information on eyecare, feel free to visit us at Killeen Eyecare Center 416, North Gray Street, Killeen, TX 76541, and Downtown Killeen. You can also call us at 254- 634- 7805.
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