TEAR DUCT, BLOCKED

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR BLOCKED TEAR DUCT

  1. Reassurance: A blocked tear duct is a common condition that affects 6% of newborns. Both sides are blocked 30% of the time. A blocked tear duct requires no treatment unless it becomes infected.
  2. Pus in the Eye: Pus in the eye means a secondary infection has occurred. This is common with blocked tear ducts and should clear up in a few days with antibiotic eyedrops or ointment. Call or see your child's physician for a prescription. In the meantime, do the following:
  3. Remove Pus: Remove the dried and liquid pus from the eyelids with warm water and wet cotton balls several times per day. Once you have antibiotic eyedrops, they will not have a chance to work unless the pus is removed each time before they are put in.
  4. Massage: Some physicians recommend routine massage of the lacrimal sac (where tears collect) twice a day, others do not. The lacrimal sac is in the inner lower corner of the eye. This sac can be massaged to empty it of old fluids and to check for early infection. A cotton swab works better than a finger. Start at the inner corner of the eye and press upward. Be very gentle. Clear fluid should come out of the corner of the eye.
  5. Expected Course: Over 90% of tear ducts open up spontaneously by the time the child is 12 months of age.
  6. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Eye becomes infected OR
    • Infection seems to be spreading
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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