Dacryocystitis is an infection of the lacrimal sac causing inflammation and a reduction in tear production. It can be acute or chronic and can cause pain, swelling, and discharge from the eye. Treatment includes warm compresses and antibiotics, and surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Dacryocystitis is an infection of the lacrimal sac, the small sac near the eye that produces tears. Normally, tears exit the lacrimal sac and travel through the eye to lubricate it, then drain through the nasolacrimal ducts. In someone with dacryocystitis, the ducts become inflamed, reducing tear production and leading to an assortment of symptoms. This condition can be quite painful, and it’s important to get treatment to reduce your risk of spreading the infection or causing damage to your eye.
This condition commonly occurs in infants, because their nasolacrimal ducts are not fully formed, and in the elderly. It can be acute, meaning it appears suddenly and without precedent, or chronic, in which case it takes the form of a constant, recurring infection. Chronic dacryocystitis can indicate a more serious problem and may need aggressive treatment to resolve it.
This condition usually begins with a blockage in the tear ducts, which causes fluid to build up in the tear sac. This fluid breeds bacteria, which spread and cause infections. In extreme cases, the sac can burst, causing an open sore to appear near the eye. If the condition is not treated, the bacteria responsible for the infection can spread out of control, potentially reaching the brain and causing a very serious infection.
Patients usually notice dacryocystitis in the early stages, as redness and swelling appear around the tear sac. The area around the eye may also become tender, sore, and very painful to touch. Some people have experienced increased tear production, along with a discharge from the eye, while others have decreased tear production, which can lead to dry eyes, causing further discomfort.
People can treat dacryocystitis at home with the use of warm compresses, especially in the early stages. A warm compress made with a clean washcloth and warm water can sometimes open the ducts, allowing them to flow freely and ease the infection. The tablets will also reduce pain and swelling, making the patient more comfortable.
If acute dacryocystitis does not resolve on its own or if it becomes chronic, an ophthalmologist should be consulted. The use of antibiotics may be necessary to resolve the infection, and surgical means can sometimes be used to correct the blockage. People should not attempt to lance the lacrimal sac at home, as the lacrimal sac can spread infection. If the pouch opens, it is strongly recommended that you seek immediate medical attention.
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