There are other kinds of eye problems aside from vision-related conditions. One of the most common problems that you may have to deal with is a blocked tear duct. What exactly is this kind of issue, and when should you see an eye doctor about it? Read on to find out.
What Is a Blocked Tear Duct?
A blocked tear duct is characterized by matter obstructing the gland responsible for secreting tears. Common signs and symptoms of a blocked tear duct includes redness of the sclera, pink eye, swelling around the corner of the eyelids, crusting along the eyelids and the presence of mucus or pus.
What Causes a Blocked Tear Duct?
There are many factors that can cause a tear duct to get blocked. Infants have a high risk of getting born with blocked tear ducts. Aging can also increase the risk of getting a blocked tear duct as the openings that drain tears narrow down as you get older. Bacterial infection due to wearing dirty contacts or eyeglasses can also cause inflammation that can block your tear ducts.
Possible Complications
A blocked tear duct can pose a serious threat to your eyes. This is because the tear ducts are responsible for making sure your eyeballs are properly hydrated. Dry eyes can increase the risk of abrasions on the eye. A dry eye is also more prone to inflammations and eye infections.
When to See a Doctor
Experts recommend that you should see an expert for an eye exam even before your tear ducts get blocked. This is especially true if your eye has been exposed to infection or has been subjected to injury or trauma. That being said, you should seek an emergency eye doctor if your tear duct actually gets blocked as leaving it untreated can easily lead to more serious problems.
Keep your tear ducts healthy with help from our team. Guilford Eye Center is the leading eye care clinic Greensboro, NC. Call us at (336) 502-5743, or fill out this contact form to request a quote.
