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What are possible disorders of the Nasolacrimal System ?
What is the treatment for excessice tearing?
How is a blocked tear duct treated?
The lacrimal gland located under the upper eyelid is what makes it possible for the eyes to produce tears, a necessity for keeping eyes moist and a functioning part of our emotions. Because the eyes produce fresh tears continuously, an efficient drainage system is necessary to drain the used tears from the eyes. This system is called the nasolacrimal system.
The nasolacrimal system starts with tiny openings on the brim of the upper and lower eyelids near the inner edge of the nose. These lead to the nasolacrimal tear ducts next to the bridge of the nose. The tears move from these ducts into the nasal cavity where they are either swallowed or discharged through the nose.
Occasionally, lacrimal or nasolacrimal functions become impaired, causing irritation and infection, and, sometimes, signifying other vision problems. One of the most common nasolacrimal problems is congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction, where an infant's blocked tear duct becomes infected, causing matter to collect in the corner of the eyes and between the eyelids. In adults, excessive tearing and drainage problems can signify other areas of concern. It's important to distinguish between the two, because drainage and tearing are two separate issues that must be evaluated by an eye care professional.
The most common symptoms of lacrimal and nasolacrimal impairments are excess tearing (tears may run down the face) and mucous discharge. Eye infections, eyelashes, exposure to the wind, yawning, glaucoma, certain drugs, eyestrain, or even dry eyes can contribute to excessive tearing.
Treatment depends on the cause of the excessive tearing. Sometimes, simply removing an irritant or other environmental conditions contributes to a decrease in tear production. Other times, small plugs can be placed in the opening of the tear duct to decrease the amount of tears produced.
A blocked tear duct forces tears to build up in the eye and run down the cheeks. And because of the lack of drainage, leftover tears can remain within the eye and become infected. Injury, birth defects, consistent nasal infections, narrowing of the nasolacrimal system associated with age, and other infections can lead to improper tear drainage.
An ophthalmologist often instructs the patient to massage the lacrimal sac area several times a day to help unblock the duct. Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction almost always resolves itself as children grow, usually between 6 months and 1 year.
Probing and irrigating the nasolacrimal system may be sufficient to relieve the blockage. In some cases, an eye care professional will recommend surgery to open a blocked tear duct.
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