How do doctors unclog tear ducts?

The surgery that's commonly used to treat blocked tear ducts is called dacryocystorhinostomy (DAK-ree-oh-sis-toe-rye-nohs-tuh-me). This procedure opens the passageway for tears to drain out your nose again. You'll be given a general anesthetic, or a local anesthetic if it's performed as an outpatient procedure.


Is blocked tear duct surgery painful?

There may be a little soreness after the procedure, but over-the-counter pain medicines should relieve the discomfort. It is normal to have some bruising after an external DCR. There is typically no bruising after an endoscopic DCR. Ask your doctor if there are activities you should avoid while you recover.

How do you unblock a tear duct without surgery?

Blocked tear ducts can resolve on their own, but your doctor may recommend massaging the tear duct to help it open. You can massage the outside of your child's nose (from the eye to the corner of the nose) with a clean index finger. Apply firm pressure during the massage.


How long does it take to recover from blocked tear duct surgery?

Most patients, if they want to get up and go, take 48 hours off work, and the majority will take off 7 to 10 days.

What kind of doctor unclog tear ducts?

Doctors do tear duct blockage surgery to open a blocked tear duct. This brief outpatient surgery is done by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).


Opening blocked tear ducts: Oculoplastics External DCR



What happens if you don't treat a blocked tear duct?

A blockage can occur at any point in the tear drainage system, from the puncta to your nose. When that happens, your tears don't drain properly, giving you watery eyes and increasing your risk of eye infections and inflammation.

Can a blocked tear duct be drained?

Tear duct blockage may lead to an infection (dacryocystitis) in part of the nasolacrimal duct called the lacrimal sac. Most often, there is a bump on the side of the nose right next to the corner of the eye. Treatment for this often requires oral antibiotics. Sometimes, the sac needs to be surgically drained.

What procedure unblocks tear duct in adults?

The surgery that's commonly used to treat blocked tear ducts is called dacryocystorhinostomy (DAK-ree-oh-sis-toe-rye-nohs-tuh-me). This procedure opens the passageway for tears to drain out your nose again. You'll be given a general anesthetic, or a local anesthetic if it's performed as an outpatient procedure.


How do you unclog a tear duct in adults?

Place a clean index finger between the inner corner of the eye and the side of the nose. Gently slide the index finger downwards while massaging the side of the nose. You can repeat it around 10 times in the morning and 10 times at night. You may also use warm compresses to relieve itching and irritation.

Can an optometrist fix a blocked tear duct?

If you or your child has a blocked tear duct, the team at Optometrists' Clinic can help determine the best course of action. We offer general and pediatric eye exams, as well as treatment for a number of eye conditions.

When should I be worried about a clogged tear duct?

Symptoms of a blocked tear duct include constant eye watering and discharge. A blocked tear duct will usually fix itself. See your GP if the blocked tear duct hasn't gone away by the time your baby is one year old.


Can antibiotics clear a blocked tear duct?

Antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Antibiotics won't open the blockage, but they can treat an infection and clear up any discharge coming from the eye.

What causes blocked tear ducts in adults?

Infection: Chronic sinus infections or eye infections can lead to blockage. Injury: Any eye injury near the tear ducts, even a scrape from tiny dirt particles, can cause a blockage. Tumors: A tumor anywhere near the tear ducts, such as in the nose, can cause blocked tear ducts.

Can tear ducts unclog themselves?

In adults, a clogged tear duct will typically heal on its own unless it becomes infected. You can open up a blocked tear duct with a combination of warm compress and massage. Babies, however, may require medical treatment. If your blocked tear duct does not resolve on its own, consult your ophthalmologist.


What are the signs of a blocked tear duct?

The following symptoms could indicate a blocked tear duct:
  • tears overflowing onto the cheek.
  • watery eyes.
  • irritated eyes.
  • mucus discharge from the eye.
  • dried discharge forming a crust on the eye.
  • frequent eye infections.
  • blurry vision.
  • swelling on one side of the nose, near the eyes.


Can an optometrist treat a blocked tear duct?

Your optometrist can perform a procedure to remove the blockage by flushing the tear duct with fluid. Dilating the duct with a balloon can also clear an obstruction. During a balloon catheter procedure, your eye doctor puts a tiny, uninflated balloon in the duct, then inflates it, which removes the blockage.

How do you get rid of a blocked tear duct in adults?

What is the treatment for a blocked tear duct in adults?
  1. Medications: If an eye infection caused the blockage, your provider may prescribe oral antibiotics or medicated eyedrops.
  2. Dilation, probing and flushing: Your provider enlarges the opening at the corner of your eye.


When should I see a doctor for a clogged tear duct?

If you experience symptoms of a blocked tear duct for more than a few days, schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist. Your doctor will do a thorough eye exam and diagnose the condition. Sometimes, a CT scan or x-ray of your tear duct system may be ordered.

Can optometrist diagnose blocked tear duct?

If you or your child has a blocked tear duct, the team at Optometrists' Clinic can help determine the best course of action. We offer general and pediatric eye exams, as well as treatment for a number of eye conditions.

Can antibiotics clear a blocked tear duct?

Antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Antibiotics won't open the blockage, but they can treat an infection and clear up any discharge coming from the eye.