Tear Duct Obstruction in Children and Infants

Tears help to protect and keep the eyes healthy by keeping them moist. Some babies and children may have congenital or acquired blockage of the tear ducts. It is a common condition especially in newborns and usually heals within the first 12 months without any treatment.

Tears secreted by the lacrimal glands spread over the eye every time we blink and the excess fluid drains into the nose through the tear ducts. Partial or complete blockage of the tear duct prevents the normal discharge of tears into the nose. Tear ducts may be congenitally narrow or closed, or they may be blocked later.

What are the Symptoms of Tear Duct Blockage in Children and Infants?

Blockage of the tear duct in children and infants can manifest itself with many symptoms. The most common of these can be listed as follows;

• Constant watering of the eyes
• Redness or pinkness of the eyes
• Irritation of the eyes
• Crusting or discharge around the eyes
• Liquid pus coming from the eye when pressure is applied to the root of the nose
• Excessive burring
• Swelling at the root of the nose

Treatment of Tear Congestion in Children and Infants

Treatment of tear duct obstruction in children and infants varies depending on the severity of the disease and the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:

• Massage to open and relax the tear ducts
• Use of prescription antibiotic drops or ointments to treat infections
• Probing of the tear duct

If massage, drops and probing applications are not effective or do not completely eliminate the obstruction, the child is expected to turn 3 years old and a surgical operation (dacryocystorhinostomy) is performed.

What is the price of tear duct obstruction treatment in children and infants?

The price of tear duct obstruction treatment in children and infants varies depending on the underlying cause and the operation to be performed. The treatment plan to be created by our specialist ophthalmologist depending on the detailed examination results may vary from person to person.

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The above information is for informational purposes. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please make an appointment with our ophthalmologists.