Canalicular Stenosis

What is Canalicular Stenosis?:

Canalicular stenosis is a medical condition where the tear ducts narrow or become blocked, leading to excessive tearing known as epiphora. This can cause significant discomfort and affect daily activities. Our clinic specializes in treatments that restore normal tear flow, reduce discomfort, and enhance eye health.

Causes of Canalicular Stenosis:

Several factors can cause canalicular stenosis. Common causes include chemotherapy drugs, especially taxanes, and radiation near the eyes. Other contributors include chronic eye conditions like conjunctivitis, physical trauma to the eye, infections such as herpes, and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome. Some cases are congenital, or the cause may be unknown. Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining proper tear drainage and preventing further complications.

Diagnosing Canalicular Stenosis:

Diagnosis often starts with a detailed evaluation of tearing symptoms. Dr. Satterfield may conduct an irrigation test, flushing water through the tear drain to check for blockages. If you’re experiencing persistent tearing, you might be a candidate for treatment aimed at providing long-term relief and improving your quality of life.

What is Canaliculitis?:

Canaliculitis is an infection in the canaliculus, often caused by obstructions like stones or foreign bodies (prior punctal plugs), leading to bacterial infection. Symptoms include swelling of the inner lower eyelid, eye discharge, and excessive tearing. It’s more common in older adults and can often be mistaken for conjunctivitis. Treatment typically involves minor surgery and antibiotics.

Personalized Treatment for Effective Relief:

Each case of canalicular stenosis is unique, prompting us to customize our approach. Dr. Satterfield evaluates the severity of your condition to recommend the best treatment, which could range from simple eye drops to surgical interventions.

Expectations Post-Procedure:

Many treatments for canalicular issues may involve placing a temporary silicone stent in the canaliculus to aid healing, similar to how an earring helps a new piercing heal. Relief from symptoms may be immediate or occur after the stent’s removal. In some cases, medications to prevent scarring might be used. Learn more about post op recovery recommendations. 

Other Causes of Tearing:

Excessive tearing can arise from various issues such as dry eye syndrome, where tears are produced in response to an irritant, eye allergies, or infections like viral conjunctivitis. Blockages in the tear ducts are less common but include include punctal stenosis, canalicular stenosis and nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Eyelid position issues, like entropion or ectropion, can also lead to tearing. Dr. Satterfield will perform a careful exam to be sure to identify the most likely cause or causes of tearing, crucial to providing proper treatment and relief.

Your Expert In Tearing Disorders:

Dr. Satterfield is proficient in the diagnosis and treatment of all tearing disorders. Learn more about Dr Satterfield’s credentials.

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