Simple procedures to test and clear blocked tear ducts in babies and adults, so tears drain normally again.
Tears drain from the inner corner of the eye through a small channel, the tear duct, into the nose. If this channel is narrowed or blocked, tears overflow onto the cheek.
Syringing gently flushes salt water through the duct to check whether it is open. Probing passes a very fine instrument through the duct to open a blockage.
In babies, blocked tear ducts are common and many clear on their own in the first year. In adults, blockages can follow infection, ageing or injury.
At a glance
A blocked tear duct usually causes:
Tears run down the cheek, even indoors.
Crusting on the lashes, especially in the morning.
Red, sore eyes that keep coming back.
A tender lump at the inner corner of the eye.
Often starts in the first weeks of life.
A film of tears makes vision misty.
Treatment is advised when watering or stickiness continues despite massage and hygiene, when infections keep returning, or when a baby’s blocked duct has not cleared by about 12 months.
A red, swollen, painful lump near the nose needs prompt care. It can be an infected tear sac and may need antibiotics.
Syringing or probing may help when
Consultant Ophthalmologist
Dr. Waleed Bunami
Meet the team
Syringing shows exactly where the drainage is blocked.
Probing for infants with persistent blocked ducts.
Most adult syringing is done in the clinic in minutes.
Performed by an experienced ophthalmologist.
We check the eyelids, the tear drainage opening and the eye surface.
Numbing drops are placed in the eye for comfort.
Salt water is gently flushed, or a fine probe opens the blockage.
We explain the result and plan any further treatment.
A little watering or a slightly bloody nose discharge can occur.
Use any prescribed drops. Watering often improves.
A review checks that tears are draining well.
Some people need repeat probing or tear duct surgery.
Do
Avoid
Most adults feel only a mild pressure and taste salt water in the throat. Numbing drops are used first.
Many do within the first year. Gentle massage can help. Probing is usually considered if it has not cleared by about 12 months.
If probing opens the duct, watering often improves within days to weeks.
Some people need a repeat procedure or a tear duct operation called DCR, which we will discuss if needed.
We’ll find out why your eye is watering and recommend the right treatment.
Sunday to Friday · 9 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm