Causes and Symptoms of Blocked Trear Duct in Children

Why does my child's eye constantly tear, even when they're not crying?

Constant tearing is one of the most common reasons parents visit an eye doctor.

However, it's essential to understand that tearing is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can result from various causes.

One of the most common causes of tearing in children is congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO).

So, what does nasolacrimal duct obstruction mean?

Naturally, tears drain from the eye through small openings in the eyelid, then pass through the nasolacrimal duct and eventually into the nose.

However, in some children, the nasolacrimal duct is not fully open after birth.

Often, the cause is simple and is due to a thin membrane blocking the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct, near its opening into the nose.

And sometimes, the cause is more complex, resulting from congenital abnormalities.

This obstruction prevents the normal drainage of tears into the nose, leading to their accumulation within the tear drainage system, particularly within the lacrimal sac.

The child may exhibit some symptoms, such as:

• Constant tearing, even without crying.

• Recurring mucous or purulent discharge from the eye.

• Eyelid crusting, especially after waking up from sleep.

• Frequent conjunctivitis.

Additionally, the presence of tears and discharge within the lacrimal sac can provide a suitable environment for bacterial growth, which may sometimes lead to acute or chronic inflammation of the lacrimal sac.

But does every child with constant tearing have a nasolacrimal duct obstruction?

Definitely not.

The causes of tearing in children are multiple, but nasolacrimal duct obstruction is the most common, affecting approximately 20% of newborns.

Therefore, an accurate diagnosis is the first step to receiving the appropriate treatment for each case.