Blocked & Infected Tear Duct

When a tear duct is blocked, it prevents the drainage system around your eye from working properly. Common symptoms of a blocked tear duct are an eye that feels irritated and appears watery.

Causes

• While a blocked tear duct is common in newborns, it occurs in adults following issues such as infection, injuries and irritations. Tumors can also cause blocked tear ducts.

Symptoms

• Besides the tearing and irritation, symptoms of a blocked and infected tear duct include swelling inside the corner of the eye, discharge, bloody tears and visual acuity issues.

Treatment

• If infection is the cause of a blocked tear duct, most often antibiotics will be prescribed to kill bacteria. Depending on the severity of the blockage, surgery may be needed to correct the problem.

Complications

• If your tears are not flowing properly, the blockage can cause growth of viruses, fungus or more bacteria. This can cause continual eye infections.

Prevention/Solution

• According to the Mayo Clinic there is no way to prevent a blocked tear duct. However, prompt medical attention if your eye is bothering you and frequent handwashing can stop infections.