The best time to treat blocked tear ducts in infants

  There are two types of lacrimal duct obstruction in infants: congenital lacrimal duct obstruction, which gradually resolves itself in most infants at 4-6 weeks of life; and those who cannot resolve themselves, which are usually treated with antibiotic drops and manual massage and are recommended to be considered for lacrimal duct exploration at six months of age.  Congenital lacrimal duct obstruction is caused by a membranous obstruction of the Hasner valve covering the end of the nasolacrimal duct, and most recover on their own as the infant gets older. If the symptoms of lacrimal duct obstruction are not relieved after six months of age or more, it is recommended to go to ophthalmology or pediatrics for a detailed examination and active symptomatic treatment. Some infants can be cured by local massage, but if conservative treatment is not effective, lacrimal duct irrigation should be considered.  In addition, parents should also pay attention to maintain the baby’s eye hygiene, and keep the indoor environment at the right temperature and humidity to ensure local air circulation.