The lacrimal glands are responsible for our body’s production of tears, while the nasolacrimal duct drains the tears from the eyes through into the nose. Men and women with a tear duct obstruction may find that they are suffering from dry eyes more often than others.
There are a few different types of obstructions that can occur, such as:
The Tear Duct Obstruction–This occurs when the nasolacrimal duct doesn’t open properly and can lead to infection.
The Congenital Obstruction–This occurs in nearly7% of all infants. To treat this obstruction the tear duct area is massaged, and if the condition persists still, the tear duct may be probed or, in worst case scenarios, a tube may be placed.
The Acquired Obstruction–Typically, if an adult has a blocked tear duct, they will undergo a DCR (which stands for Dacryocystorhinostomy) to create a new passage way between the blocked sac and the nose.
If you are suffering from a tear duct obstruction and are interested in learning more about your options for resolving it, contact our office today.
