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The tear duct is swollen. Is this something to worry about?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a swollen tear duct. The right tear duct is swollen, does not hurt or itch. It has been there for a few years now. No changes in the size other than getting larger.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

From the photo you have attached (attachment removed to protect patient identity), it does not look like a tear duct swelling. It looks like a swelling arising from your conjunctiva and the exact diagnosis would only be possible with a slit lamp examination. But, I can tell you that it is a harmless swelling as it has been gradually increasing since two years and has not caused you to have any symptoms yet. It does need a visit to the ophthalmologist, although it is not an emergency. If you have a blocked tear duct, you will have symptoms such as constant watering, frequent infections which cause pain in your eye and discharge. I would like to know if you are suffering from any of these problems.

The Probable causes

The probable cause is a previous eye infection.

Investigations to be done

The investigation to be done is a slit lamp examination.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis is a conjunctival cyst.

Probable diagnosis

The probable diagnosis is a conjunctival granuloma.

Treatment plan

A slit lamp examination should be done, and the management depends on the findings.

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At May 9, 2018
Reviewed AtJune 4, 2025

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