Watery Eyes and Tear Duct Blockage

Tears normally drain from the inner corner of the eye through a small duct into the nose. If this drainage is blocked, tears overflow onto the cheek, and the eye may become sticky or infected.

Watery eyes can also be caused by dry eye, eyelid position problems or allergy, so finding the cause comes first. Dr. Manar Al-Wuhaib, Consultant in Oculoplastic Surgery, assesses and treats tear duct conditions.

Who it's for

• Babies and children with persistent watering or sticky eyes since birth. Please contact the clinic so that we can arrange a suitable appointment and doctor based on your child's age and condition.
• Adults with constant watering, especially from one eye.
• Repeated infection or swelling in the inner corner of the eye (dacryocystitis).

How it works

1. Assessment: an examination of the eyelids and eye surface, and a gentle flushing test of the tear duct with saline to check whether it is open.
2. Children: many congenital blockages open by themselves in the first year with massage. If not, a short probing procedure may be recommended.
3. Adults: a blocked duct is usually treated with DCR surgery, which creates a new drainage path from the tear sac into the nose.

Recovery

• After probing, children usually return to normal activity the same day.
• After DCR, mild nosebleeds and swelling are common for a few days. Avoid blowing your nose hard for the period advised.
• A thin silicone tube is sometimes left in place for a few weeks and then removed.

Frequently asked questions

Your care team

• Assessment, treatment and surgery, including tear-duct probing: Dr. Manar Al-Wuhaib

This page provides general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and results differ from person to person and will be discussed with you by your doctor.