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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.

Answered by Dr. Manjunath Natarajan

Education:

M.B.B.S

Professional Bio:

Dr. Manjunath Natarajan is an Ophthalmologist with expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma management, diabetic eye care, and refractive error correction. He is skilled in advanced diagnostic techniques and minimally invasive procedures to treat a wide range of eye conditions. Dr. Natarajan is dedicated to preserving and enhancing vision through personalized, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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 by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At May 9, 2018
Reviewed At June 4, 2025

Education:

M.B.B.S

Professional Bio:

Dr. Manjunath Natarajan is an Ophthalmologist with expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma management, diabetic eye care, and refractive error correction. He is skilled in advanced diagnostic techniques and minimally invasive procedures to treat a wide range of eye conditions. Dr. Natarajan is dedicated to preserving and enhancing vision through personalized, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

M.B.B.S

Professional Bio:

Dr. Manjunath Natarajan is an Ophthalmologist with expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma management, diabetic eye care, and refractive error correction. He is skilled in advanced diagnostic techniques and minimally invasive procedures to treat a wide range of eye conditions. Dr. Natarajan is dedicated to preserving and enhancing vision through personalized, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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