CNLDO – Blocked Tear Duct in Babies
Many babies have constant watering or sticky discharge from one or both eyes. The most common reason is Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (CNLDO) — a simple blockage in the tear drainage passage. In most cases, it is not a dangerous infection and often resolves naturally as the baby grows.
What is CNLDO?
Tears normally drain from the eye into the nose. In CNLDO, the lower end of this drainage passage is not fully open at birth. As a result, tears cannot drain properly and collect in the eye.
- Watery eyes
- Sticky discharge
- Repeated eye infections
- Symptoms worse after sleep
Typical Symptoms
- Constant watering since early infancy
- Sticky discharge on eyelashes
- One eye often more affected than the other
- Eye looks white and healthy (not red)
- Temporary improvement after cleaning
Is it Serious?
CNLDO is usually not serious. Most babies outgrow it naturally by 6–12 months of age. However, if the tear sac becomes infected, the inner corner of the eye may become swollen or red. This situation requires urgent medical attention.
How Does it Improve?
As the baby grows, the thin membrane at the end of the tear duct usually opens on its own. Regular Crigler massage over the tear sac helps stimulate opening. If symptoms persist beyond 9–12 months, a simple procedure called probing may be advised.
Management at Rana Eye Centre
1. Diagnosis
We gently examine your baby’s eyes and tear drainage system, and rule out other causes such as allergy, corneal problems, or childhood glaucoma.
2. Massage & Cleaning
Parents are taught the correct downward massage technique, to be done several times a day. Cleaning with cotton and cooled boiled water helps reduce discharge.
3. Drops / Ointment (if needed)
Short courses of antibiotic drops or ointment may be prescribed during infection. Long-term continuous use is avoided.
4. Probing / Further Procedures
If watering continues beyond 9–12 months or infections are recurrent, probing under anaesthesia may be recommended. Rare cases may require silicone tube intubation.
Interactive Symptom Checker (Website Section)
Typical for CNLDO
- Watering since early infancy
- White, healthy-looking eye
- Discharge improves after cleaning but returns
- One eye more affected
Warning Signs – Need Urgent Check
- Significant redness or swelling
- Fever or baby refusing to open the eye
- Swelling near the nose or inner corner
- Concern about baby’s vision
FAQs
Will my baby go blind?
No. CNLDO affects tear drainage, not vision. It does not cause blindness.
When should probing be done?
Most tear ducts open naturally by 6–12 months. Probing is considered only if symptoms persist.
Is probing a major surgery?
No. It is a short, safe procedure performed under anaesthesia.
When should we come urgently?
If there is redness, swelling, fever, or severe discharge near the nose or inner corner.