Blocked tear duct

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Tear duct blockage

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Blocked tear duct

A blocked treat duct describes a partial or complete obstruction in the duct system that carries tears away from the surface of the eye to the nose.

Tears from the surface of the eye are normally drained into the nose by a convoluted tube called the nasolacrimal duct. If this duct is blocked, the tears will accumulate and overflow onto the cheek, even when a person isn't crying.

In children, the duct may not be completely developed at birth. This often resolves on its own. In adults, the duct can be damaged by infection, injury or tumor.

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