Congenital Tear Duct Occlusion

The main symptom of a baby with congenital tear duct occlusion is epiphora, (watery eyes) and occasional purulent discharge due to lack of tear drainage. Spontaneous resolution is very common within the first twelve months. During this period; nasolacrimal massage can be helpful to open the obstruction by increasing the pressure and emptying the accumulated secretion within the lacrimal sac. If there is no spontaneous improvement within the first year of life the nasolacrimal duct can be opened with probing surgery.