Overview
Tears drain through a small duct into the nose. When it's blocked, tears spill over and the eye gets sticky.
In babies the duct often opens on its own. In adults, it can come from aging, infection, or injury.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Watery or sticky eye
Less common
- Red bump by the nose
When to get medical care
Causes
Narrow duct.
Who is more likely to get it
- Babies
Diagnosis
A clinician examines.
Treatment
Massage and clean.
Self-care
- Gently massage beside the nose
- Wipe with warm water
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Antibiotics | Infection |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Probing for babies past 1.
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Wash hands before touching eyes
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon).
- A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.
Back to school, work, or sports
- School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
- Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Babies: About 1 in 20 have a blocked duct.
Outlook
Usually clears.
Most babies' ducts open by age 1.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Does my baby need a probing?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Blocked or infected tear duct
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.