Watery Eyes / Blocked Tear Ducts (Adults & Children)
Watery eyes are often caused by blockage or narrowing of the tear drainage system, leading to persistent tearing and irritation. Surgical treatment can restore normal drainage and provide long-term relief.Watery eyes, also known as epiphora, occur when tears are not draining properly from the surface of the eye. While tear production is normal and essential for eye health, disruption to the drainage system can lead to persistent watering, irritation and, in some cases, infection.
Blocked or narrowed tear ducts can affect both adults and children and are a common cause of ongoing tearing.
What Are Blocked Tear Ducts?
Tears are continuously produced by the lacrimal glands and normally drain through a small system of channels into the nose. When this drainage pathway – known as the nasolacrimal duct – becomes narrowed or blocked, tears accumulate and overflow onto the cheek.
In adults, this narrowing often develops gradually with age, but may also be associated with:
- Chronic or recurrent infections
- Previous injury or trauma
- Sinus disease
- Inflammation or scarring
- Less commonly, obstruction from a small stone (calculus)
In children, tear duct blockage is often present from birth and may resolve spontaneously or require treatment if persistent.
In some cases, watery eyes may also be caused by eyelid malposition, where the small openings (puncta) that drain tears do not function properly.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a blocked tear duct may include:
- Constant watering or overflow of tears onto the cheeks
- Blurred vision due to excessive tearing
- Mucus discharge from the eye
- Recurrent conjunctivitis
- Sticky eyelids, particularly on waking
- Difficulty keeping glasses clear due to moisture
In more severe cases, infection of the tear sac (dacryocystitis) may occur, leading to pain, swelling and redness near the inner corner of the eye.
Next Steps
If tearing is persistent or affecting your daily activities, a specialist assessment can determine whether a blockage or narrowing of the tear drainage system is present. Early evaluation is particularly important in patients with recurrent infections or significant symptoms.
Assessment & Diagnosis
Assessment typically includes:
- Examination of the eyelids and tear drainage openings
- Evaluation of tear flow and drainage function
- Assessment for infection or inflammation
- Imaging in selected cases
This allows identification of the location and severity of any obstruction and helps guide treatment.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the blockage.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)
The most effective treatment for a blocked tear duct is a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). This procedure creates a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nasal cavity, bypassing the obstruction.
DCR can be performed using:
- Endoscopic (internal) approach – performed through the nasal passage with no external incision
- External approach – performed through a small skin incision, typically well concealed
Lacrimal Stenting
In selected cases, a small stent may be placed within the tear duct to maintain drainage and support healing.
Revision Tear Duct Surgery
For patients who have had previous procedures or complex blockages, revision surgery may be required to restore function.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed.
Following surgery:
- Mild swelling or discomfort may occur temporarily
- Eye drops or medications may be prescribed
- Follow-up appointments ensure the new drainage pathway remains open
When appropriately treated, most patients experience significant and lasting relief from tearing.