Lacrimal Syringing for Blocked Tear Ducts in Dublin
Watery eyes aren't always caused by producing too many tears. In many cases, tears cannot drain away normally because part of the tear drainage system has become narrowed or blocked.
What Is Lacrimal Syringing?
Lacrimal syringing is a procedure used to assess whether your tear drainage system is open and functioning normally.
After placing anaesthetic eye drops to ensure your comfort, a small sterile cannula is gently inserted into the tear drainage opening (punctum). Sterile saline is then flushed through the drainage system.
If the saline flows freely into the nose or throat, it suggests that the tear drainage pathway is open. If resistance or reflux occurs, this may indicate a narrowing or blockage within the drainage system.
The procedure is quick, minimally invasive and is routinely performed in the clinic.
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Lacrimal syringing may be recommended if you experience:
Constant watery eyes
Tears overflowing onto the cheeks
Recurrent eye infections
Sticky discharge
Suspected blocked tear duct
Symptoms affecting one eye more than the other
It can also help determine whether your symptoms are caused by a drainage problem or another eye condition.
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The tear drainage system can become narrowed or blocked for a variety of reasons, including:
Age-related narrowing
Chronic inflammation
Blepharitis
Previous infections
Previous trauma
Scarring of the tear drainage system
Identifying the cause helps determine the most appropriate management.
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The procedure usually takes just a few minutes.
First, anaesthetic eye drops are placed into the eye to maximise comfort.
A fine sterile cannula is then gently inserted into the punctum before sterile saline is flushed through the tear drainage system.
Most patients experience little discomfort and can return to their normal activities immediately afterwards.
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In some patients, lacrimal syringing may help relieve minor blockages by flushing debris or mucus from the tear drainage system.
However, if a significant blockage is present, further investigation or referral to an ophthalmologist may be required. Lacrimal syringing is therefore both a valuable diagnostic procedure and, in selected cases, a simple treatment.