A blocked tear duct, or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, occurs when the drainage system for tears from the eye into the nose is partially or completely blocked. This can lead to an overflow of tears. Gentle massage is a non-invasive method often recommended by medical professionals to help clear this obstruction.
Understanding Blocked Tear Ducts
Blocked tear ducts are common, particularly in infants, affecting 6% to 20% of newborns. This often occurs because a thin membrane, the valve of Hasner, has not fully opened at birth. This prevents tears from draining properly into the nasal cavity.
Indications of a blocked tear duct include persistent watery eyes (epiphora), even when a baby is not crying. There may also be a gooey or crusty discharge on the eyelashes and eyelids, especially noticeable after sleep. Massage is recommended for this congenital obstruction in infants.
How to Perform the Massage
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water to maintain hygiene. Position your child comfortably, ensuring their head is supported. This allows for better access and stability during the massage.
Locate the inner corner of the eye, next to the nose. Place your index finger on this spot. Apply firm but gentle pressure, aiming to push on the lacrimal sac beneath this area.
Gently stroke downward and slightly inward, moving towards the nose. This action helps to “milk” the duct, encouraging trapped fluid or membrane to clear. Repeat these strokes 3 to 10 times per session. Perform this massage several times daily, typically two to six times. Before each massage, gently wipe away any discharge or crusting from around the eye using a warm, damp cloth.
What to Expect and When to Seek Medical Advice
Most blocked tear ducts in infants resolve spontaneously as the drainage system matures, typically by one year of age. Consistent massage can assist this natural process. Signs of effectiveness include a reduction in tearing or discharge, or the appearance of mucus or tears during the massage itself.
Consult a pediatrician if there is no improvement after several weeks or months of consistent massage, especially if the blockage persists beyond six to twelve months of age. Seek medical advice if signs of infection develop. These include increased redness or swelling in or around the eye, eyelid, or nose, pus or greenish discharge, or a fever.
A hard lump near the inner corner of the eye or sensitivity to light also warrant medical attention. If the blockage does not clear with massage, a pediatrician may recommend other interventions, such as probing. This procedure involves gently passing a thin instrument through the duct to open the obstruction.