What You Should Know About Blocked Tear Ducts

Blocked tear ducts can cause a number of problems for you. This condition typically prevents your tears from draining normally, leaving you with watery or irritated eyes. In some cases, the obstruction of the tear drainage system is only partial. In others, it can be a complete blockage.

In this post, your local optometrist at Vienna Eyecare Center shares more information about blocked tear ducts.

What Are the Symptoms of Blocked Tear Ducts?

Watery eyes and tears streaming from your eyes are often the most common symptoms of blocked tear ducts. Other symptoms that you might have to look out for include:

redness or irritation of the eye
blurred vision
pain and swelling of the inside corner of the eye
crust forming on the eyelids
discharge or mucus coming from the eye
eye infections

Since many of these symptoms could also be from other conditions such as colds or sinus infection, it is best to consult an eye doctor to be sure of what you are experiencing. This way, the proper treatment can be given before the condition worsens or leads to something else more serious.

What Are the Causes of Blocked Tear Ducts?

A blocked tear duct is fairly common in newborns. But as they go through their first year of life, the condition usually gets better. In adults, a blocked tear duct may be due to an infection of the eyes, tear duct system, or nasal passages. Sometimes an injury or a tumor may also cause blocked tear ducts. Most cases of blocked tear ducts are correctable, but the treatment varies depending on the cause of the obstruction and the patient’s age.

Vienna Eyecare Center provides excellent vision care services and quality eye products like eyeglasses and contact lenses. Our staff is experienced and knowledgeable about various optical needs, and they can ensure your safety and comfort while in the clinic. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment. We serve clients in Vienna, Reston, and McLean, VA.

Dr. Richard Snively