Dacryocystitis is infection of the tear duct, sac or gland. It is a contagious condition, and occur more often in children. Dacryostenosis is the scarring, blockage or narrowing of the tear duct which is usually an inherited abnormality. Dacryostenosis usually appears in infants at 3 to 12 weeks of age. Dacryocystitis can occur at any age following an infection.
Causes of Tear Duct Infection Or Blockage
Inherited abnormalities that lead to narrowing or atresia, absence, of the nasolacrimal duct can occur. Infections of the duct, which are usually bacterial, can also develop. Infections of the sinuses or the nasal cavity can also directly or indirectly occlude or narrow the nasolacrimal duct. This is most commonly seen in chronic nasal infections. Polyps of the nasal cavity, which are balloon-like growths of the nasal lining, can obstruct the drainage from the eye. Eye trauma, eye infection and fractures of the nasal bones and facial bones can all lead to damage, destruction or narrowing of the nasolacrimal duct.
Signs and Symptoms of Tear Duct Infection Or Blockage
Either blockage or infection of the tear duct can produce symptoms. These include persistent tearing of one or both eyes or the drainage of mucus and pus instead of water from the tear duct. There may be spontaneous drainage from the eye, or it may produced by pressure over the tear duct. Inflammation or infection of the tear duct produces pain, swelling and redness in the lower inner part of the eyelid. The conjunctiva, or clear lining over the white part of the eye and eyelid, may become red.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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