Introduction
The lacrimal duct is a structure that extends from the inner corner of the eyelid to the nose, allowing the drainage of tear fluid into the nose. This tear duct can become inflamed. This is often caused by an obstruction in the drainage of tear fluid.
The outflow can be disturbed by various reasons, for example structures that obstruct the tear duct. The tear fluid is produced in the lacrimal gland, which is located at the top of the eye. From here, the tear fluid reaches the surface of the eye, where it protects the eye from drying out and the penetration of pathogens.
With the help of the eyelid blink, the tear fluid is transported over the entire eye surface up to the inner corner of the eyelid. Here, the tear fluid is drained via the tear duct into the nose. An inflamed lacrimal duct can be distinguished between an acute and a chronic form, which is characterized by a longer lasting inflammation. In both cases, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist, who can initiate the correct treatment once the diagnosis has been made.
What are the symptoms of an inflamed tear duct?
An inflamed lacrimal duct can be distinguished between an acute and a chronic form, which can present themselves with similar symptoms. Patients with an acutely inflamed lacrimal duct often suffer from pronounced swelling, redness and overheating at the inner lid angle and severe pain in the affected eye. There may also be itching, which can lead to constant rubbing of the eye.
Frequently, a secretion of purulent secretion is seen when pressure is applied to the inner eyelid angle, as well as the formation of purulent crusts. Also the occurrence of light to high fever, strongly pronounced feeling of illness, as well as pressure painful and swollen lymph nodes can occur. As a complication, the inflammation can spread to the surrounding soft tissues, which is then called phlegmon.
Another complication is the formation of an abscess. This is an accumulation of pus in a cavity newly formed by the inflammation. The phlegmons and the abscess trigger a strong inflammatory reaction and can be accompanied by massive pain.
Both cases are very dangerous clinical pictures. If the inflamed lacrimal duct is caused by a disturbance in the drainage system of the lacrimal fluid, additional symptoms such as constant tearing can occur. If too much tear fluid accumulates, the tear fluid will overflow over the edge of the eyelid, which is known as tear trickle (epiphora).
The chronic form, i.e. an inflammation that has existed for a long time, can present itself with similar symptoms. In contrast to the acute form, the chronic form is less often associated with pain. As a rule, an acute inflammation of the lacrimal duct is also accompanied by pain.
The symptoms are similar to those of conjunctivitis or corneal inflammation. If there is a chronic inflammation of the lacrimal duct, e.g. due to lacrimal duct stenosis, it is usually less painful than the condition of acute inflammation. The use of analgesic medication is recommended in addition to the treatment of the inflammation.
