Blocked Tear Ducts

Blocked Tear Ducts in Children

A blocked tear duct (also known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction) is a common condition in infants and young children where tears are unable to drain properly from the eye into the nose. Instead, the tears build up on the surface of the eye and may lead to persistent watering, discharge, or even mild infections.

At Sydney Eye Care - Burwood, we understand how concerning it can be for parents to see their child with constantly watery or irritated eyes. Fortunately, this condition is very treatable, and in most cases, children go on to have completely healthy, normal vision.

What Are the Signs of a Blocked Tear Duct? • Constant tearing or watery eyes (even when the baby isn’t crying) • Yellow or white discharge collecting in the corners of the eye • Crusting on the eyelashes, especially after sleep • Redness or slight swelling near the inner corner of the eye • Recurrent eye infections or conjunctivitis

Why It Happens

In newborns, the tear drainage system may not be fully open at birth. The duct that connects the eye to the nasal passage can remain partially blocked for the first few months of life. This is a very common condition, affecting up to 20% of newborns, and most cases improve naturally by 6–12 months of age.

Treatment Options

While many cases resolve on their own, we offer gentle, step-by-step care tailored to your child’s needs: • Lacrimal sac massage – A special technique taught to parents to help open the duct naturally • Antibiotic drops – Used if there’s any sign of infection • Probing procedure – A simple, in-office or day-surgery procedure done • Advanced procedures – For rare, persistent cases, we offer minimally invasive surgical options such as stenting or dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), performed by our expert ophthalmic surgeons

Dr Loren Rose is specialised with paediatric treatment of blocked tear ducts. Book a consultation today and let our paediatric eye care team help your child see clearly and comfortably. Call (02) 9715 1311 to book an appointment.