Dacryocystitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of dacryocystitis?

Dacryocystitis is the inflammation or infection of the lacrimal sac, which is part of the tear drainage system located near the inner corner of the eye. The symptoms of dacryocystitis can include:

1. Pain and tenderness: There is often pain, tenderness, and swelling in the area between the eye and the nose, specifically over the lacrimal sac.
2. Redness: The affected area, including the inner corner of the eye and the surrounding skin, may appear red and inflamed.
3. Swelling: Noticeable swelling over the lacrimal sac can occur, sometimes extending to the lower eyelid.
4. Tearing: Excessive tearing (epiphora) is common due to the blockage in the tear drainage system.
5. Discharge: Pus or mucus discharge from the inner corner of the eye may be present, especially when pressure is applied to the swollen area.
6. Crusting: The discharge can lead to crusting around the eye, particularly upon waking.
7. Fever: In acute cases, fever and general malaise may occur, indicating a more systemic infection.
8. Blurry vision: Swelling and discharge can sometimes interfere with clear vision.
9. Nasal symptoms: In some cases, there may be associated nasal congestion or drainage if the infection spreads.

If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of dacryocystitis?

Dacryocystitis is caused by an infection or inflammation of the lacrimal sac, which is typically due to a blockage in the tear drainage system. The primary causes include:

1. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction: The most common cause is the blockage of the nasolacrimal duct, which prevents tears from draining properly, leading to infection.
2. Bacterial infection: Common bacteria that can cause dacryocystitis include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, and Haemophilus influenzae.
3. Chronic inflammation: Conditions such as chronic sinusitis can lead to persistent inflammation and subsequent blockage of the nasolacrimal duct.
4. Congenital anomalies: Some infants are born with a blockage in the nasolacrimal duct, making them prone to dacryocystitis.
5. Trauma: Injury to the nose or surrounding areas can lead to scarring and blockage of the tear duct, predisposing one to dacryocystitis.
6. Nasal and sinus disorders: Conditions like nasal polyps, deviated septum, or tumors can obstruct the nasolacrimal duct and lead to dacryocystitis.
7. Systemic conditions: Certain systemic diseases, such as sarcoidosis, Wegener’s granulomatosis, and other inflammatory conditions, can cause secondary involvement of the lacrimal sac.
8. Aging: With aging, the tear ducts can narrow, leading to an increased risk of blockage and infection.
9. Previous surgeries: Surgical procedures in the nasal or orbital area can result in scarring or other complications that lead to dacryocystitis.

Prompt treatment of dacryocystitis is important to prevent complications and to resolve the infection effectively.

What is the treatment for dacryocystitis?

Dacryocystitis, an infection of the tear sac, typically requires medical treatment. Here are some common approaches:

1. Antibiotics: In many cases, antibiotics are prescribed to treat the underlying bacterial infection. Oral antibiotics may be sufficient for mild cases, while severe cases may require intravenous antibiotics.
2. Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. This can also help promote drainage of the infected material.
3. Nasolacrimal Duct Massage: Massaging the area over the tear sac can help clear blocked tear ducts and promote drainage. This is often done after applying warm compresses.
4. Tear Duct Irrigation: In some cases, the tear duct may need to be flushed with saline solution to clear any blockages.
5. Surgical Intervention: If the infection is severe or recurrent, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures such as dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) or endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EN-DCR) may be performed to create a new drainage pathway for tears.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.