Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction in Children

Tear Duct Obstruction in Children

Excessive tearing in infants and young children is one of the most common eye problems encountered by parents. The most frequent cause of this condition is tear duct obstruction. So, what causes it, how can it be recognized, and when should you consult a doctor.

How Does the Tear Duct Work?

Tears are produced by the lacrimal gland, located in the outer upper corner of the eye. Normally, after moistening the surface of the eye, tears drain through small openings at the inner corners of the eyelids (puncta) into the nasolacrimal duct, and from there into the nose.

If this duct is blocked, tears accumulate on the surface of the eye, leading to constant tearing.

Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction in Children

• Thin membrane at birth (Hasner’s valve) not opening: This is the most common cause. It is present in about 50% of newborns, but in most cases it opens spontaneously within a few weeks.
• Congenital duct malformation: The duct may not fully connect to the nose.
• Absence of puncta: The small openings in the eyelids may be missing from birth.
• Narrow tear ducts
• Obstruction due to infection

How Common Is It?

Approximately 5 out of every 100 babies have tear duct obstruction. Most cases are unilateral, although sometimes both eyes can be affected. About 90% of cases resolve spontaneously within the first year.

What Should Parents Pay Attention To?

• Constant tearing
• Discharge and crusting of the eye
• Swelling or redness of the eyelid
• Increased tearing, especially in cold or windy weather

If these symptoms are present, the child should be examined by a pediatric ophthalmologist.

Treatment Methods

• Massage: Gently massaging the tear duct as instructed by your doctor is often sufficient.
• Medication: If there is an infection, antibiotic eye drops are used.
• Surgical intervention: For obstructions that do not resolve by 1 year of age, a minor procedure called probing can be performed to open the tear duct.

👉 You can safely have your child’s eyes examined by scheduling an appointment with a pediatric eye specialist in Ankara.