Blocked Tear Duct: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Published on April 15th, 2026

A blocked tear duct, also known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, occurs when the tears cannot drain from the eye and can occur due to several reasons, such as eye infections and injuries. The eye maintains moisture and optimal health with a thin film of tears that the lacrimal glands constantly produce. Every time you blink, tears coat the eye and are drained through the small openings on the upper and lower eyelids, which are known as the tear ducts of the eye. When you have a blocked tear duct, your tears cannot drain out of your eye, leading to a buildup and overflow of tears, which can cause you to experience watery eyes and possibly develop infections. Other potential causes can include having narrow tear ducts, aging, and tumours. Having a blocked tear duct may present symptoms such as watery eyes, sticky, white or yellow eye discharge, crusty eyelids, redness or swelling and will require treatment that addresses the initial cause of blockage.

What is a Blocked Tear Duct?

A blocked tear duct is a condition that happens when something blocks the tears from clearing out of the eye properly. This can hinder the normal flow of tears and cause them to back up in the tear duct system, according to Health Direct. For proper ocular function, tears work by providing moisture to the surface of the eye and offering protection against infections.

How does Blocked Tear Duct Affect the Eye?

A blocked tear duct can affect the eye as it disrupts the typical flow of tears through the lacrimal system. This can lead to the tears accumulating in the tear ducts and overflowing into the eye, causing watery or excessively watery eyes, swelling in the corners of the eye or swollen eyelids, eye pain and blurry vision. Proper tear drainage is important for optimal eye health as the process aids with maintaining good moisture levels, nutrients and protection against germs.

A close-up of a person's eye showing signs of swelling in the lower eyelid from a blocked tear duct.

How does a Blocked Tear Duct Disrupt Normal Tear Drainage?

A blocked tear duct can disrupt normal tear drainage by impeding the pathways through which tears flow to drain out of the eye. When the lacrimal glands produce tears, they then go through the small openings or tear ducts located in the inner corner of the eyelid. When the tears are unable to clear out the eye, they essentially get stuck in the tear ducts and fill up the eye.

Can a Blocked Tear Duct Cause Temporary Blurred Vision?

Yes, a blocked tear duct may cause temporary blurred vision. A blocked tear duct may lead to blurry vision in patients in some cases, along with excessively watery eyes, eye discharge and swelling. Blurry vision may be mild and/or temporary until the cause of the blockage is addressed.

What Causes a Blocked Tear Duct in Adults?

The causes of a blocked tear duct in adults can include eye infections, injuries, and the lining of the tear duct thickening with age. According to the Better Health Channel, chronic nose infections can irritate the tissues and lead to scars forming, which can block the tear duct system. Injuries to the nose can cause damage and potentially cause scarring, blocking the tear duct. The lining of the tear duct can also be a risk factor for blockage because it can thicken as you get older, leading to blockage.

How Can Infection or Inflammation Lead to a Blocked Tear Duct?

Infection or inflammation can lead to a blocked tear duct as they can cause swelling of the tissues in the tear duct or an increased risk of scar tissue forming, leading to a blocked tear duct. Inflammation may stem from allergies, conjunctivitis or sinus issues and ongoing infections or chronic sinusitis can lead to the formation of scarring in the tear duct.

Is a Tear Duct Infection a Common Cause of Blocked Tear Duct?

Yes, a tear duct infection can be a common cause of a blocked tear duct. When conditions such as allergies or conjunctivitis occur, the tear duct systems can potentially become inflamed and swollen, causing the tear duct passageways to become narrower and blocked. According to Health Direct, infections can be a common cause of a blocked tear duct in adults.

What Symptoms Indicate a Blocked Tear Duct?

The symptoms that may indicate a blocked tear duct can include tearing, swelling, redness and discharge. However, it is important to note that symptoms of a blocked tear duct can be similar to symptoms of many other eye conditions. The symptoms that may indicate a blocked tear duct are listed below.

Tearing: Tearing can be a symptom that indicates a blocked tear duct and can occur when the tears cannot drain out of the eye. This causes the tears to accumulate in the tear duct passageway and spill out into the eye, resulting in excessive tearing.
Swelling: Swelling may be another notable symptom indicating a blocked tear duct, as the buildup of tears can potentially lead to an infection. An infection can then induce swelling, redness and irritation.
Redness: Redness can ensue as a symptom of a blocked tear duct as a result of the inflammation that can occur when an infection or irritation occurs.
Discharge: Discharge can be an indicative symptom of a blocked tear duct and can commonly occur when the eyes are excessively watery. Eye discharge may appear clear, white or yellow and of sticky consistency.

An illustration of an eye showing signs of discharge as a result of a blocked tear duct.

Why does a Blocked Tear Duct Cause Swelling Near the Inner Eye?

A blocked tear duct may cause swelling near the inner eye, potentially due to the buildup of fluid, inflammation and infection. The tears and mucus cannot drain out of the eye and accumulate inside the lacrimal sac. The build-up of fluid may also lead to increased physical pressure and cause the area to swell. A blocked tear duct may also lead to an infection developing, which can cause the affected area to swell, appear red and be painful.

Can a Blocked Tear Duct Cause Pain When Blinking?

Yes, a blocked tear duct may cause pain when blinking due to inflammation and/or increased pressure. Inflammation and increased pressure in the tear duct can make the eyes and surrounding areas more sensitive and tender, especially when touching or blinking.

How can Sun Exposure Worsen a Blocked Tear Duct?

Sun exposure may not worsen a blocked tear duct, but it may, however, exacerbate your symptoms. According to Lipsky (2025), watery or teary eyes from a blocked tear duct may feel more noticeable when exposed to the sun, wind or cold temperatures.

How does a Blocked Tear Duct Affect Light Sensitivity Outdoors?

A blocked tear duct may affect light sensitivity outdoors, as the affected eye may be more tender or sensitive to external stimuli. When the eyes are infected or inflamed as a result of a blocked tear duct, the eyes may be more sensitive to the bright sunlight.

Can Sunglasses Help Protect Eyes With a Blocked Tear Duct?

Yes, sunglasses may help protect eyes with a blocked tear duct when out in sunny weather. Sunglasses can help block the sun's UV light rays and help with minimising the bright sunlight, which an individual with a blocked tear duct might be sensitive to, depending on the severity of their condition.

How does Screen Time Affect a Blocked Tear Duct?

Screen time may affect a blocked tear duct, as it may worsen the symptoms that can ensue as a result of excessive screen time. According to Al-Mohtaseb et al. (2021), excessive screen time can reduce your blinking rate, which can lead to dry eyes. Dry eyes may increase the production of reflex tears, and with the combination of a blocked tear duct, patients may notice signs of blurred vision and irritation due to the excessive tearing.

How can Digital Eye Strain Intensify the Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct?

Digital eye strain may intensify the symptoms of a blocked tear duct due to a reduced blinking rate and dry eyes. According to Porter (2025), looking at our devices can cause some temporary symptoms such as dry eyes, eye irritation, itchy eyes, headaches and foreign body sensation. Individuals may experience one or more of these symptoms because we tend to blink less and usually blink roughly around 15 times per minute; however, this can be reduced to half when using devices. Taking frequent breaks in between, such as every 20 minutes, can help prevent symptoms of digital eye strain and ensure more comfort during your tasks.

Can Blue Light Glasses Support Comfort for a Blocked Tear Duct?

No, blue light glasses may not likely support comfort for a blocked tear duct. Blue light glasses may not likely help with a blocked tear duct, as they are mainly designed for blocking or reducing blue light from digital screens from reaching the eye. Therefore, blue light glasses won't likely have any effect on symptoms of a blocked tear duct.

How Can Prescription Glasses Help Improve Comfort for a Blocked Tear Duct?

Prescription glasses may help improve comfort for a blocked tear duct in terms of physically shielding the affected eye. Wearing prescription glasses may help protect your eyes from the wind or cold air, dust or small particles that may get in. However, they won't necessarily help improve comfort for a blocked tear duct in any other aspect. Your optometrist or GP will be able to prescribe the most suitable treatment plan for your condition.

How Can Photochromic Lenses Help Manage the Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct?

Photochromic lenses may not help manage the direct symptoms caused by a blocked tear duct. Photochromic lenses are a great form of function for people who want the convenience of having sunglasses and their prescription glasses all in one pair. This eliminates the need for carrying and switching between two pairs, preventing discomfort from the potential light sensitivity associated with a blocked tear duct.

How is a Blocked Tear Duct Diagnosed and Treated?

A blocked tear duct can be diagnosed through an eye test or physical examination by your local doctor and can be treated through many different options, according to Health Direct. Treating a blocked tear duct will depend on the age of the patient and the severity of their condition. Some options can include eye drops, minor procedures or surgery.

When Should a Blocked Tear Duct Be Examined by an Eye Doctor?

A blocked tear duct may not need to be examined by an eye doctor. Some optometrists in Australia and New Zealand perform a procedure called a 'lacrimal lavage' - an in-room procedure that uses saline to unblock the ducts if obstructed internally. In the event this does not work, then referral to an ophthalmologist may be warranted for further investigation.

Can Early Treatment Prevent Complications From a Blocked Tear Duct?

Yes, early treatment can help prevent complications from a blocked tear duct. Seeing an optometrist or medical professional promptly, may aid in preventing infections from occurring or worsening. Early treatment may also help prevent significant discomfort or pain and allow the medical professional to identify the underlying issue at a more comfortable stage of your condition.