Dacryocystitis is an inflammation of the tear sac, which is medically known as the lacrimal sac. This small hollow space sits in the inner corner of the eye, close to the nose, and plays an important role in draining tears away from the eye.
How does inflammation of the tear sac develop?
Normally, tears flow through tiny channels from the eye into the tear sac, and from there they drain through the nasolacrimal duct into the nose. If this drainage pathway becomes blocked, for example due to swelling, infections, or small deposits, fluid can build up in the tear sac. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. When germs enter this area, dacryocystitis develops.
Babies are particularly often affected, because in them the nasolacrimal duct is sometimes not yet fully open. Older people can also be affected, as the drainage passages tend to become less clear with age.
How can dacryocystitis be recognised?
Typical signs include a painful, red, and swollen area at the inner corner of the eye, often with a visible bulge. Gentle pressure on the area may cause a discharge of pus or mucus. The eye itself usually waters more than normal, and sometimes conjunctivitis can develop as well.
In some cases, fever or a general feeling of being unwell may also occur, particularly if the inflammation progresses further. In children especially, the swelling can be quite pronounced.
Is dacryocystitis dangerous?
Many people worry when they suddenly notice a painful swelling near the eye. Left untreated, dacryocystitis can indeed lead to complications. The inflammation can spread to surrounding tissue and, in serious cases, lead to the formation of an abscess or even a severe infection that affects other areas of the face. It is therefore important to seek medical advice as early as possible.
How is the diagnosis made?
In most cases, the typical findings are enough: the swelling, redness, and discharge of fluid when pressure is applied to the tear sac give clear indications. Doctors also check whether the nasolacrimal duct is open, often using special rinses or small probes. In some cases, a swab is taken to identify the bacteria causing the infection. Imaging methods such as ultrasound are rarely needed, but can be used in unclear or severe cases.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment depends on how severe the inflammation is. In most cases, antibiotics are used, either as eye drops, ointment, or tablets. If the swelling is very significant or an abscess forms, a small surgical procedure may be needed to drain the infected fluid. The affected area is carefully opened and cleaned.
At the same time, it is important to address the cause of the drainage problem. Sometimes it is enough to open and flush the nasolacrimal duct with a fine probe. In recurring or chronic cases, a small surgical procedure may be necessary to create a new drainage pathway.
What can be done at home?
Unless a doctor has advised otherwise, avoid pressing or manipulating the swelling, as this can spread the infection. Cool, clean compresses can help ease the discomfort. It is important not to rub the eye and to practise good hand hygiene.
At the first signs of a painful swelling at the inner corner of the eye, increased tearing, or discharge, medical advice should be sought as soon as possible. This is especially important for children or if a fever develops.
Course and outlook
With the right treatment, dacryocystitis heals well in most cases. However, if the cause of the drainage problem remains, the inflammation can keep coming back. It is therefore important not only to treat the immediate symptoms, but also to ensure that tears can drain properly in the long term.
Anyone who has frequently experienced watering eyes or recurring inflammation near the inner corner of the eye should mention this to an eye doctor. In many cases, small procedures or targeted flushing can prevent further complications.
Dacryocystitis is uncomfortable and should be taken seriously, but with the right treatment it can usually be managed well.
