The outermost part of the eye functions like a car's windshield, which constantly needs a supply of water so that the windshields (the eyelids) can clean and moisten its surface.
Tears are produced in the orbit near the eyelid and, after contact with the eye, are collected in a system called the lacrimal apparatus. This system consists of collection channels (canaliculi) that transport the tears to a sac before releasing them under the skin to the nose. Repeated infections of the ocular surface (most frequently conjunctivitis) or of the lacrimal sac (acute dacryocystitis) can cause scarring that closes the natural drainage pathway, resulting in continuous tear overflow, a symptom known as epiphora.
The truth is that when the tear duct becomes blocked, it can be very bothersome for the patient, not only because of the continuous tearing, but also because of the fogging it causes on glasses, the secondary eyelid skin irritation, or the repeated infections it causes.
The only treatment that solves the problem involves intervention. If possible, a plastic tube (stent) can be inserted to bypass the blockage, although in many cases this only provides temporary relief. If this measure is ineffective, major surgery is necessary.
In recent years, laser surgery has become increasingly popular for this procedure; this technique has the advantage of being very quick and not requiring stitches. However, despite the new technologies, the traditional technique continues to show the best long-term results, although it does require stitches. In almost all cases, a silicone tube is inserted during the operation and removed weeks or months later.
The only way to prevent this problem is to see an ophthalmologist as soon as the first symptoms of an eye infection appear, so it can be treated properly and more serious problems avoided.
Dr. Javier Rodríguez Martín
Medical Director – NIVARIA CLINIC
Specialist in Ophthalmology - University Hospital of the Canary Islands.