Tears are essential for keeping our eyes clean, lubricated, and free from dust or debris. But when the tear drainage system becomes blocked a condition known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) it can lead to excessive tearing, eye discharge, irritation, and even infection.
While tear duct blockages are commonly seen in infants, they can also affect adults due to infections, trauma, aging, or chronic inflammation. Fortunately, with the right treatment, this issue can be effectively resolved.
In this blog, we’ll explore what causes blocked tear ducts, how they differ in children and adults, and when procedures like Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) or probing may be needed.
Blocked Tear Ducts in Children
Blocked tear ducts are relatively common in newborns and infants. In fact, nearly 5% of babies are born with some form of NLDO. This typically occurs because the tear duct system hasn’t fully opened at birth.
Common Symptoms:
- Constant tearing (even when not crying)
- Sticky or crusty discharge in the eyes
- Swelling or redness near the inner corner of the eye
- Frequent eye infections or conjunctivitis
Initial Treatment:
In most cases, conservative management is effective:
- Lacrimal sac massage (Crigler massage) helps open the duct
- Cleaning the eye regularly
- Use of antibiotic drops if there’s an infection
When to Consider Probing:
If the blockage persists beyond 6 to 12 months, or if infections are recurrent, a simple procedure called probing may be recommended.
What is Probing?
Probing involves inserting a fine, blunt probe into the tear duct to open the blockage. It’s usually done under short anesthesia and has a high success rate in children.
Blocked Tear Ducts in Adults
In adults, blocked tear ducts are often caused by:
- Chronic nasal or sinus infections
- Aging-related narrowing of tear ducts
- Trauma or facial injuries
- Previous surgeries or inflammatory diseases
Symptoms in Adults:
- Excessive tearing (epiphora)
- Eye irritation or redness
- Discharge or crusting
- Pain or swelling at the side of the nose
- Recurrent eye infections (dacryocystitis)
Unlike in children, adult tear duct blockages rarely resolve on their own and usually require surgical treatment.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): The Gold Standard for Adults
When the tear duct is fully blocked and conservative treatment fails, Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the best option.
What is DCR Surgery?
DCR is a surgical procedure that creates a new pathway for tears to drain from the eyes into the nose, bypassing the blocked duct.
Types of DCR:
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External DCR:
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A small incision is made on the side of the nose
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A new drainage channel is created
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Slight scarring may occur, but it’s minimal and often fades
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Endoscopic (Laser) DCR:
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Performed using a nasal endoscope
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No visible scar
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Faster recovery and minimal bleeding
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Benefits of DCR:
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Permanent relief from tearing
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Restores normal tear drainage
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Reduces risk of recurrent infections
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Quick healing and high success rate (90–95%)
The choice of procedure depends on the severity of the blockage, facial anatomy, and patient preference.
Why Choose Iris Eye Care Clinic?
Dr. Vasundhara Kulkarni, a highly experienced and compassionate Eye Specialist in Moshi, Pune, specializes in treating tear duct disorders in both children and adults. She brings a patient-friendly approach, especially when working with infants and seniors, and offers the latest surgical options like endoscopic DCR for quicker recovery.
At Iris Eye Care Clinic, you can expect:
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Accurate diagnosis using tear duct syringing, imaging, and endoscopy
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Gentle and painless probing for infants
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Advanced endoscopic DCR for adults
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Complete aftercare and follow-up
Dr. Vasundhara Kulkarni, a renowned Eye Specialist in Moshi, Pune, offers specialized care for blocked tear ducts in both children and adults. With years of expertise in pediatric eye care, DCR procedures, and lacrimal surgeries, she ensures patients receive personalized and effective treatment.
At Iris Eye Care Clinic, you can expect:
- Gentle and accurate diagnosis
- Child-friendly environment for infant procedures
- Advanced endoscopic DCR techniques
- Compassionate follow-up care
For expert evaluation and treatment of watery eyes or blocked tear ducts,
Book a consultation with Dr. Vasundhara Kulkarni at Iris Eye Care Clinic – Trusted Eye Specialist in Moshi.
