A condition that prevents tears from draining normally, leading to their accumulation, eye irritation, and an increased risk of infection due to partial or complete blockage of the tear drainage system

Symptoms:

Blurred or cloudy vision

Frequent eye infections and inflammation

Excessive tear production

Redness or painful swelling near the inner corner of the eye

Crust formation on the eyelids

Pus discharge from the eyelids and the surface of the eye

Causes:

Infection or inflammation: Chronic infections or inflammation of your eyes, tear drainage system, or nose can lead to blocked tear ducts

Injury or trauma: Facial injuries can damage facial bones or cause scarring near the tear drainage system, disrupting the normal flow of tears through the tear ducts. Even small particles of dirt or free skin cells in the tear duct can cause a blockage

Congenital blockage: Many infants are born with a blocked tear duct. The tear drainage system may not fully develop, or there may be a defect in the duct. A thin membrane of tissue often remains over the opening that drains into the nose (nasolacrimal duct)

Age-related changes: As you age, the small openings that drain tears may narrow, causing a blockage

Cancer treatments: Blockage of the tear ducts is a possible side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer