Blocked Tear Ducts: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

If you are experiencing persistent eye watering, irritation, and discomfort, it may be more than just environmental allergies or dry eye syndrome. You may have a blocked tear duct. Tear ducts normally drain tears from the eyes into the nose. When a blockage occurs, tears cannot drain properly and instead overflow onto the face. Learn more about this eye condition to see if it’s time for professional intervention.

At Fante Eye and Face Centre, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Robert G. Fante, a pioneer in minimally invasive and endoscopic tear drainage surgery, and Dr. Alexandra Levitt, a board-certified, fellowship-trained specialist in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Supported by a highly experienced clinical team and equipped with advanced technology, the practice offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment in a comfortable Denver office.

Symptoms of Blocked Tear Ducts

Excessive tearing is often the first sign of a blocked tear duct, but it is rarely the only symptom. People with this condition may experience:

• Constant or excessive watering of the eyes
• Recurrent eye infections or inflammation
• Redness or swelling in the inner corner of the eye
• Mucus or discharge from the eye
• Crusting on the eyelashes, especially after sleep
• Blurry vision caused by excess moisture

If an infection develops, pain, tenderness, or pressure around the eye and nose may also occur.

Causes of Tear Duct Blockages

Blocked tear ducts may develop due to:

• Age-related narrowing of the tear ducts
• Chronic eye infections or inflammation
• Sinus infections or nasal congestion
• Facial or nasal injuries
• Nasal polyps or structural abnormalities
• Congenital blockage in infants

In newborns, tear duct blockage is often present at birth and usually resolves naturally within the first year.

Treatment Options for Blocked Tear Ducts

Mild cases may respond well to conservative care, such as:

• Warm compresses to reduce inflammation
• Gentle tear duct massage
• Prescription eye drops or antibiotics if infection is present

If symptoms persist, you may need a procedure to restore drainage, including:

• Tear duct dilation and irrigation
• Temporary stent placement
• Minimally invasive surgery to create a new drainage pathway

Get Relief from Eye Tearing in Denver, CO

Call us today at 303-839-1616 to schedule a consultation if watery eyes last more than a few days or are accompanied by pain, swelling, or discharge. Early treatment can prevent infection, reduce discomfort, and protect your overall eye health.