Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is the obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct and may be either congenital or acquired. Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct leads to the excess overflow of tears called Epiphora.

SYMPTOMS

Excessive tearing is the most common complaint of patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction, followed by acute or chronic infections. Pain at the side of the nose suggests Dacryocystitis.

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is more common with increasing age and more common in females than males.

PROCEDURE

Evaluation is in the form of a dye disappearance test followed by irrigation test. By using this sequence (with modifications) as a guide, the physician can frequently streamline diagnostic testing.