Key Takeaways
- Blocked tear ducts in children often cause persistent tearing, discharge, and irritation.
- Symptoms can be mistaken for allergies or infections, making early recognition essential.
- Understanding the differences between blocked tear ducts and other common eye issues helps parents know when to seek care.
- Pediatric eye specialists can diagnose the condition through simple, noninvasive testing.
- Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists provide comprehensive pediatric eye exams, tear duct evaluations, and tear duct surgery in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas—schedule an appointment today.
Understanding Blocked Tear Ducts in Children
Blocked tear ducts, also called nasolacrimal duct obstruction, develop when tears cannot drain properly from the eyes. These are fairly common in infants, often developing because the drainage system has not fully opened at birth. While many cases improve naturally over time, some children continue to experience symptoms that require medical evaluation and treatment. While many cases resolve naturally, some children continue to experience symptoms that require medical evaluation.
In Pittsburgh and the surrounding regions, parents frequently seek guidance on how to identify symptoms early and understand when to seek help from a pediatric eye specialist.
1. Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)
Persistent tearing is often the first and most noticeable sign of a newborn's blocked tear duct. Even when a child is not crying, you may see:
- Tears pooling in the corner of the eye
- Tears running down the cheeks
- Consistent “watery eyes” during feeding, play, or sleep
This happens because the blocked duct prevents tears from draining normally, causing them to overflow. Clinical findings confirm that excessive tearing is a hallmark symptom of tear duct obstruction in children.
How It Differs From Allergies or Irritation
- Allergies typically involve both eyes and include itching or sneezing.
- Blocked tear ducts often affect one eye and present very early in infancy.
If tearing persists beyond the first few months of life, it is recommended to schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam at Everett & Hurite for further evaluation.
2. Crusty Eyelashes or Mucus Discharge
Another common sign of a blocked tear duct is yellow or white discharge that causes:
- Sticky eyelashes upon waking
- Buildup in the corners of the eyes
- Frequent wiping of the eyelids
This occurs because tears accumulate and mix with natural eye oils, creating mucus. When the blockage persists, this discharge can become more noticeable.
When Discharge May Signal Infection
Clinical evidence notes that blocked tear ducts can lead to bacterial buildup, which increases the risk of dacryocystitis, a tear sac infection characterized by:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Fever
- Irritability
If you observe these symptoms, prompt medical attention is needed.
3. Redness Around the Eye
Redness around the tear duct or eyelids is a sign that the area is irritated from constant moisture or rubbing. Children with blocked ducts often rub their eyes more frequently, leading to:
- Mild redness of the eyelid
- Irritation of the skin around the eye
- Occasional swelling
Blocked Tear Duct vs. Pink Eye
| Symptom | Blocked Tear Duct | Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) |
|---|---|---|
| Tearing | Constant | Variable |
| Discharge | Thick, recurrent | Often watery or mucous |
| Redness | Around eyelid | Entire eye appears pink/red |
| Contagious? | No | Often yes |
If you're unsure, a pediatric eye specialist can provide a quick and accurate diagnosis.
4. Recurrent Eye Infections
Children with blocked tear ducts are at higher risk for infection because trapped tears create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. According to the medical literature, bacterial infections or abscesses are among the main complications of untreated tear duct blockages in children.
Common Signs of Infection
- Tenderness near the inner corner of the eye
- Warmth or swelling
- Increased fussiness
- Thick yellow or green discharge
Recurrent infections should always be evaluated by a pediatric specialist to prevent long-term issues and ensure proper healing.
5. Symptoms Persisting Beyond the First Year
Many cases of newborn blocked tear ducts gradually improve on their own within the first year of life. However, if symptoms continue beyond this period, it may indicate that the blockage isn’t resolving naturally and could require medical evaluation or treatment.
When to Seek Treatment
Everett & Hurite may recommend:
- Continued tear duct massage techniques
- Evaluation for dilation, probing, and irrigation
- Pediatric tear duct surgery if the obstruction persists
Early treatment helps prevent ongoing infections and supports healthy tear drainage.
When to Consult a Pediatric Eye Specialist in Pittsburgh
Schedule an appointment if your child experiences:
- Constant tearing after age 6 months
- Noticeable discharge or crusting
- Redness or swelling near the tear duct
- Recurrent eye infections
- Symptoms affecting both eyes
Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists provide comprehensive pediatric eye exams, diagnosis, and treatment, including tear duct surgery when needed.
Explore their services:
- Pediatric Eye Exam
- Tear Duct Surgery
- Oculoplastic Surgery
The Impact of Untreated Blocked Tear Ducts
While usually not dangerous, untreated blocked tear ducts can lead to:
- Repeated infections
- Increased eye irritation
- Temporary blurred vision
- Skin irritation from constant tearing
Prompt diagnosis ensures your child receives appropriate treatment and avoids preventable complications.
Ensure Your Child Receives the Eye Care They Need
Blocked tear ducts are common and highly treatable, especially when identified early. Knowing the signs helps parents feel confident and ensures their child receives the right care at the right time. Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists provide trusted pediatric evaluations and treatments to support healthy vision throughout childhood.
Schedule your child’s appointment for a Pediatric Eye Exam or Tear Duct Surgery consultation with Everett & Hurite today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes blocked tear ducts in newborns?
Most cases occur because a thin membrane near the valve of Hasner has not fully opened at birth, preventing tears from draining properly.
How do I know if my baby has a blocked tear duct or an infection?
Blocked ducts cause tearing and discharge, while infections lead to redness, swelling, warmth, or fever. If unsure, schedule a pediatric eye exam for proper evaluation.
Can I use eye drops for a blocked tear duct?
Eye drops may be recommended only if an infection is present. A pediatric eye specialist will determine the appropriate treatment.
When does a blocked tear duct require surgery?
If symptoms persist past 12 months or if infections recur frequently, Everett & Hurite may recommend tear duct probing or surgery.
Is tear duct massage effective?
Yes. Tear duct massage is the first-line treatment for infants and can often open the blocked membrane, reducing symptoms quickly.
