Dacryocystitis (Tear Duct Infection)

Dacryocystitis (Tear Duct Infection)

Dacryocystitis is a painful infection of the tear sac (lacrimal sac) located at the inner corner of the eye. This condition occurs when the tear duct, which normally drains tears from the eye to the nose, becomes blocked or obstructed.

 

What is dacryocystitis?

  • Redness and swelling near the inner corner of the eye
  • Pain and tenderness around the affected area
  • Excessive tearing (epiphora)
  • Discharge from the eye, which may be mucoid or purulent
  • Blurred vision
  • Fever (in severe cases)

 

Causes and risk factors

Dacryocystitis can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (long-term). Common causes include:

  1. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction
  2. Bacterial or viral infections
  3. Congenital abnormalities in the tear drainage system
  4. Trauma to the eye or surrounding structures
  5. Nasal polyps or other sinus conditions

Risk factors may include age (more common in infants and adults over 40), gender (women are more susceptible), and certain medical conditions like conjunctivitis or sinusitis.

 

Diagnosis and treatment

At AccuVision, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify dacryocystitis:

  • Comprehensive eye examination
  • Tear drainage testing
  • Imaging studies (CT scan or dacryocystography)

Treatment options may include:

  1. Antibiotics: Oral or topical antibiotics to clear the infection
  2. Warm compresses: To relieve pain and promote drainage
  3. Lacrimal sac massage: To help express infected material
  4. Surgical intervention: In chronic cases, procedures like dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) may be necessary to create a new tear drainage channel

 

Prevention and long-term care

Maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial in preventing recurrent infections. Our specialists at AccuVision provide personalised care plans to ensure optimal eye health and prevent complications.

Don’t let a tear duct infection compromise your vision or comfort. Contact AccuVision today for expert diagnosis and treatment of dacryocystitis and other eye conditions.

Take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision. Book a consultation with AccuVision’s eye care experts today.

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