Tear duct obstruction is one of the most important eye disorders that cause chronic watery eyes and directly affect the comfort of life. Due to the blockage of the duct, it is not possible for the tears to drain from the duct to the nasal area, and as a result, we see various negativities, especially watery eyes. So how is tear duct obstruction treated? What is done for the patient to regain vision comfort?
Tear Duct Obstruction Treatments
In fact, we can also explain this treatment as the treatment of lacrimation. Because, as we mentioned, the biggest side effect of canal obstruction is that the tear accumulated in the eye flows from the eye periphery, that is, watery eyes.
At the point of treatment, the condition and degree of obstruction will be important. Different methods may be preferred depending on the cause of the obstruction, the age of the patient and the degree of obstruction in the canal. Let’s list these methods from simple to more complex.
- Massage applications for mild cases: We can say that it is a method preferred especially in infants and applied in mild obstructions. The canals can be opened by massaging the tear sac area with light pressure. Of course, this is a method that may be valid in milder cases and in babies where the blockage is not completely hardened.
- Tear Duct Washing: Again, it is generally preferred for mild blockages and is generally known as a method applied in infants. A thin probe is inserted into the tear ducts and the tear duct can be opened with gentle movements. It should be noted that this procedure can be repeated.
- Balloon Catheter Dilatation: If the blockage is at a more troublesome level, then the balloon catheter method can be used to remove the blockage. In this method, a special balloon catheter is inserted into the tear duct and the balloon is inflated to remove the blockage.
- DSR Surgery: If the blockage cannot be removed and the canal cannot be opened, then the DSR method may be preferred. It is necessary to create a new canal with a new opening instead of the blocked canal. It should be said that the surgery takes a little longer because a new channel needs to be created.
Tear duct obstruction treatments are generally listed in this way. It is absolutely necessary to have a detailed eye examination to know which method will be chosen in the treatment of tear duct obstruction and at what level the obstruction is. Your doctor will choose the method that will be suitable for you.
