Dacryocystitis is an infection or inflammation of the tear-drainage sac (the lacrimal sac) that sits just beside the bridge of your nose. Tears normally flow from the eye into this sac and then down a small pipe (the nasolacrimal duct) into the nose. When the pipe blocks, bacteria and sometimes fungi multiply inside the trapped fluid, turning the quiet sac into a sore, swollen pocket of pus. The problem can strike suddenly (acute) or smolder for months (chronic). Although it looks dramatic, prompt care usually brings relief and protects vision. Cleveland Clinic
Dacryocystitis occurs when the tear drainage channel between your eye and nose becomes blocked. Tears build up, allowing bacteria to grow in the lacrimal sac behind the inner corner of the eye. You’ll notice swelling, redness, and often pus that may drip from the eye. Acute cases come on quickly with pain and fever, while chronic cases cause a persistently watering eye and mild discharge.
Think of the eye like a garden with its own sprinkler. The “sprinkler” (the lacrimal gland) rains tears over the front window of the eye to keep it clear and germ-free. Excess tears slide into two tiny drain holes on the inner eyelid edges, travel down short channels (canaliculi), pool in the lacrimal sac, and finally empty through the nasolacrimal duct into the nose. A valve at the duct’s nasal end acts like a one-way door, stopping nose bacteria from climbing back up. If any part of this drainage tunnel narrows or the valve sticks shut, fluid backs up, germs thrive, and dacryocystitis begins.
Main types of dacryocystitis
Below are the common forms you may read about. Each paragraph explains the type in simple words.
Acute bacterial dacryocystitis – A sudden, painful infection, usually with redness, swelling, and sometimes fever. It behaves like a boil that rushes onto the scene within hours or days.
Chronic dacryocystitis – A slow, often painless, low-grade infection that may simply cause constant tearing and occasional sticky discharge. The sac feels full but not fiery.
Recurrent (intermittent) dacryocystitis – Episodes flare, settle with treatment, then flare again because the blockage never truly clears.
Neonatal (congenital) dacryocystitis – Seen in newborns whose tear duct opening fails to open at birth; parents notice persistent tearing and yellow discharge in the first weeks of life.
Secondary inflammatory dacryocystitis – Inflammation from nearby sinus disease, nasal polyps, or systemic conditions (e.g., sarcoidosis) irritates the sac even without obvious bacteria.
Fungal dacryocystitis – Rare; yeast or mold infections, often in people with weak immune systems or long-term antibiotic use.
Tuberculous or atypical-mycobacterial dacryocystitis – Uncommon but important in areas where tuberculosis is endemic.
Traumatic (post-injury) dacryocystitis – Scarring after facial injury or surgery narrows the drainage channel and sets the stage for infection.
Main causes
Nasal–lacrimal duct obstruction from birth – Some babies are born with a thin membrane that never opened; tears stagnate and invite infection.
Age-related narrowing – As people age, soft tissues sag and bony channels shrink, slowing tear outflow.
Chronic sinus infections – Swollen sinus linings press on the tear duct opening.
Nasal polyps – Soft grape-like growths in the nose block the duct entrance.
Deviated nasal septum – A crooked septum can mechanically squeeze the duct.
Facial or nasal trauma – Broken bones or scar tissue pinch the tear pipe shut.
Previous nose or eye surgery – Scarred tissue, implants, or packing may obstruct flow.
Allergic rhinitis – Repeated nasal swelling thickens tissues around the duct.
Chronic blepharitis or conjunctivitis – Oily lid debris and bacteria migrate into the sac.
Dacryoliths (tear-sac stones) – Like tiny pearls of dried mucus; they clog the sac’s exit.
Systemic inflammatory diseases (e.g., sarcoidosis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis) – Granulomas infiltrate the drainage system.
Tumors of the lacrimal sac or nose – Benign or malignant masses physically obstruct the passage.
Pregnancy-related swelling – Hormonal changes thicken mucous membranes and slow drainage.
Use of chronic topical eye drops (e.g., timolol, pilocarpine) – Some drops irritate and scar canalicular tissue.
Radiation therapy to the mid-face – Radiation fibrosis narrows the duct.
Chronic exposure to dusty or polluted air – Particles inflame mucous linings.
Poor eyelid position (entropion or ectropion) – Malposition disrupts tear pumping action.
Contact lens wear with poor hygiene – Bacteria from lenses migrate to the sac.
Immunodeficiency (HIV, chemotherapy) – Lower defenses let unusual pathogens colonize.
Untreated chronic conjunctival infections with Chlamydia or gonorrhea – Organisms track into the tear sac.
Each of these causes boils down to one theme: something blocks or slows the tear pathway, so germs get a chance to grow.
Symptoms
Constant tearing (epiphora) – Tears spill down the cheek because they cannot drain normally.
Redness at the inner corner of the eye – Local blood vessels widen in response to infection.
Swelling over the lacrimal sac – The sac balloons as pus and fluid accumulate.
Pain or tenderness – Touching the area feels sore, and dull throbs may radiate toward the nose.
Warmth of the skin – Increased blood flow makes the corner of the eye feel hot.
Yellow or green discharge – Pus can ooze spontaneously or when you press the swelling.
Crusting on lashes – Overnight discharge dries and glues lashes together.
Blurred vision – Excess tears and discharge cloud the front window of the eye.
Fever or chills – A sign the infection is spreading beyond the local site.
General malaise – Fatigue and body aches reflect your immune system working hard.
Photophobia (light sensitivity) – Inflamed tissues make bright light uncomfortable.
Pressure or fullness sensation – Patients describe a “stuck” feeling near the nose.
Bloody tears (rare) – Fragile infected vessels leak a small amount of blood into tears.
Headache or facial pain – Linked sinus congestion or referred pain can throb across the face.
Recurrent conjunctivitis – The infected sac seeding bacteria back onto the eye surface.
Diagnostic tests
Physical-exam based
Inspection and palpation – The doctor looks for redness and swelling and gently presses the sac to see if pus regurgitates.
Tear lake assessment – Observing the height of pooled tears along the eyelid margin.
Fluorescein dye disappearance test (FDDT) – A drop of orange dye is placed on the eye; if it is still visible after 5 minutes, drainage is sluggish. Mayo Clinic
Trans-illumination (pen-torch test) – A light shone through the sac may outline an opaque mass or fluid.
Crigler massage with expression – Gentle downward stroke over the sac may expel pus for culture and proves obstruction. EyeWiki
Manual probing / functional tests
Lacrimal syringing (irrigation) – Salty water is flushed through the upper punctum to see if it exits the nose; blockage sites are noted.
Probing with a Bowman probe – A thin metal wire is advanced through the duct to feel for soft or hard resistance.
Jones I test – After syringing clears dye, new dye is placed; its recovery in the nose after 5 minutes suggests partial, not complete, block.
Jones II test – If dye is absent, saline is injected and nose fluid checked again; helps pinpoint exact obstruction.
Endoscopic nasal evaluation while irrigating – Simultaneous visualization of dye or fluid entering the nose confirms distal patency.
Laboratory & pathological
Gram stain and culture of expressed pus – Identifies the exact bacteria and guides antibiotic choice.
Complete blood count (CBC) – Looks for elevated white cells or other systemic clues.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) / C-reactive protein (CRP) – General markers of inflammation severity.
Acid-fast bacilli stain or PCR (if TB suspected) – Checks for tuberculosis mycobacteria in chronic, non-healing cases.
Electrodiagnostic or physiological flow studies
Radionuclide dacryoscintigraphy – A tiny radioactive tracer drop maps tear flow on a gamma camera; slow transit pinpoints the block.
Dynamic tear meniscus OCT – Optical coherence tomography measures tear meniscus height changes with each blink.
Computerized dacryomanometry – Sensors measure pressure changes along the duct during irrigation to quantify obstruction.
Imaging tests
Dacryocystography (contrast X-ray) – Iodine contrast is injected into the sac and X-rayed; a blockage shows as a sudden stop.
CT scan of orbit and paranasal sinuses – Reveals stones, tumors, sinus disease, or bony fractures pressing on the duct. Medscape
MRI of orbit – Better for soft-tissue tumors or inflammatory masses.
Ultrasound of lacrimal sac – A quick bedside scan that shows fluid levels or stones.
Endoscopic nasal camera (rigid or flexible) – Direct visualization of the duct’s nasal opening and surrounding mucosa.
Plain facial X-ray (Waters view) – Historical but still helpful in resource-limited settings to spot fractures.
Cone-beam CT – Low-dose CT that maps bony channels, useful in surgical planning.
Positron emission tomography (PET-CT) if malignancy suspected – Detects metabolic activity of tumors.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
Warm Compresses. Gently applying a warm, moist cloth over the inner eye corner for 5–10 minutes, 3–4 times daily, helps loosen blockage and promotes drainage by increasing local blood flow and softening secretions Cleveland Clinic.
Crigler (Lacrimal Sac) Massage. Pressing your index finger at the eye’s inner corner and sliding it downward in short strokes clears the duct by manually pushing fluid through the blockage NCBI.
Saline Eye Washes. Flushing the area gently with sterile saline removes crusts and reduces bacterial load by mechanical cleaning.
Eyelid Hygiene. Daily cleansing of eyelids and lashes with diluted baby shampoo prevents debris buildup and lowers infection risk.
Nasal Saline Irrigation. Rinsing nasal passages with a neti pot or spray relieves congestion, indirectly easing tear duct drainage by reducing nearby swelling MedicineNet.
Head Elevation. Sleeping with your head slightly raised prevents fluid pooling in the lacrimal sac and reduces nighttime swelling.
Avoiding Irritants. Steering clear of smoke, wind, and dust stops additional inflammation of the tear duct lining.
Steam Inhalation. Breathing warm steam hydrates nasal and lacrimal mucosa, helping open the duct.
Gentle Facial Massage. Light strokes along the side of the nose promote lymphatic drainage and relieve pressure.
Humidifier Use. Keeping indoor air moist prevents mucosal dryness that can worsen blockage.
Warm Olive Oil Packs. Applying a cotton pad soaked in warmed olive oil soothes tissue and may help soften dried secretions.
Essential-Oil Massage. Diluted lavender or chamomile oil massage offers mild anti-inflammatory effects and comfort.
Ocular Physiotherapy. Trained therapists use specialized strokes to stimulate lymph and tear drainage.
Balloon Dacryoplasty (Conservative). A tiny balloon catheter is inserted into the duct and inflated to widen the channel—often done in clinic to avoid open surgery NCBI.
Punctal Dilation. Stretching the tear duct opening with graduated probes clears minor narrowings.
Topical Probiotics. Experimental eye-drop formulations introduce benign bacteria to outcompete pathogens on the ocular surface.
Cold Compresses (Post-Inflammation). After acute pain subsides, cold reduces residual swelling by vasoconstriction.
Hydration. Drinking plenty of water keeps mucous thin, aiding natural tear flow.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet. Consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains lowers systemic inflammation that can affect the lacrimal system.
Stress Management. Techniques like deep breathing reduce cortisol-driven inflammation, indirectly supporting duct health.
Drug Treatments
Amoxicillin-Clavulanate (Augmentin). 875 mg/125 mg PO twice daily for 7–10 days. A penicillin-beta-lactamase inhibitor combo, it covers Staph and Gram-negative bacteria. Common side effects include diarrhea and rash Cleveland Clinic.
Cephalexin. 500 mg PO every 6 hours for 7 days. A first-generation cephalosporin active against Staph. Watch for GI upset and allergic reactions Cleveland Clinic.
Clindamycin. 300 mg PO QID for 7 days. A lincosamide effective against resistant Staph. Risk of diarrhea and C. difficile colitis Cleveland Clinic.
Ciprofloxacin. 500 mg PO twice daily for 7 days. A fluoroquinolone with broad coverage; tendonitis and QT prolongation are possible.
Levofloxacin. 750 mg PO once daily for 7 days. Broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone; beware tendon rupture and photosensitivity Review of Optometry.
Doxycycline. 100 mg PO twice daily for 7 days. A tetracycline useful for mixed infections; causes photosensitivity and GI upset Review of Optometry.
Azithromycin. 500 mg PO day 1, then 250 mg days 2–5. A macrolide with immunomodulatory effects; may prolong QT interval.
Trimethoprim–Sulfamethoxazole. One double-strength tablet (160/800 mg) PO twice daily for 7 days. A folate-synthesis inhibitor; watch for rash and hyperkalemia Cleveland Clinic.
Dicloxacillin. 500 mg PO every 6 hours for 7 days. A penicillinase-resistant penicillin targeting MSSA; may cause GI upset and allergic reactions Drugs.com.
Topical Moxifloxacin Drops. 0.5% one drop QID for 7 days. Broad-spectrum ocular fluoroquinolone; may irritate the eye.
Dietary Molecular Supplements
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). 500 mg twice daily. Acts as an antioxidant and supports white blood cell function.
Vitamin D₃ (Cholecalciferol). 2,000 IU daily. Modulates innate immunity, reducing infection risk.
Zinc (Zinc Gluconate). 25 mg daily. Cofactor for enzymes in neutrophils and T-cells, boosting microbial defense.
Selenium (Selenomethionine). 55 µg daily. Supports glutathione peroxidase, protecting tissues from oxidative stress.
Curcumin. 500 mg twice daily. Blocks NF-κB, lowering inflammatory cytokine production.
β-Glucans (Yeast-Derived). 250 mg daily. Binds dectin-1 on macrophages, enhancing phagocytosis.
Quercetin. 500 mg twice daily. Stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine release.
N-Acetylcysteine. 600 mg twice daily. Mucolytic antioxidant that replenishes glutathione.
Echinacea purpurea Extract. 300 mg three times daily. Stimulates macrophages and natural killer cells.
Probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus). 1 × 10⁹ CFU daily. Modulates mucosal immunity and inhibits pathogen adhesion.
Regenerative & Stem-Cell-Related Drugs
Filgrastim (G-CSF). 5 mcg/kg SC once daily (idiopathic neutropenia) or 6 mcg/kg SC twice daily (congenital neutropenia). Stimulates neutrophil production to bolster infection defense Medscape ReferenceWikipedia.
Pegfilgrastim. Single 6 mg SC dose per chemotherapy cycle. A long-acting G-CSF, reducing injection frequency; same neutrophil-boosting mechanism Verywell Health.
Palifermin (KGF). 60 µg/kg IV daily for 3 days. Keratinocyte growth factor that promotes epithelial healing in mucosal tissues.
Thymosin α-1. 1.6 mg SC twice weekly. Enhances T-cell maturation and dendritic-cell function.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Infusion. 1 × 10⁶ cells/kg IV once. Releases paracrine factors that reduce inflammation and support tissue repair.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Eye Drops. Autologous plasma applied QID for 2–4 weeks. Rich in growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β) that accelerate healing of lacrimal sac lining.
Surgical Procedures
External Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). Creates a new passage between lacrimal sac and nasal cavity through a skin incision to permanently bypass blockages Cleveland Clinic.
Endonasal (Endoscopic) DCR. Uses a nasal endoscope to form the new drainage route without external scars, ideal for adults Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Balloon Dacryoplasty. Inflates a tiny balloon inside the duct to dilate the narrowed area, often first-line for chronic obstruction NCBI.
Nasolacrimal Duct Probing with Silicone Intubation. Inserts a fine tube to keep the duct open; common in congenital cases when massage alone fails NCBI.
Conjunctivo-Dacryocystorhinostomy. A variation of DCR where conjunctival flaps improve success in patients with extensive scarring.
Prevention Strategies
Practice daily eyelid and lash hygiene to prevent debris buildup.
Use humidifiers in dry environments to keep mucosa moist.
Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes with unwashed hands.
Treat conjunctivitis promptly to stop spread to the lacrimal system.
Manage allergies with antihistamines or nasal sprays.
Keep nasal passages clear via saline irrigation.
Wear protective eyewear in dusty or smoky settings.
Stay well-hydrated to maintain thin tears.
Avoid nasal irritants like decongestant overuse.
Seek early treatment for sinus or nasal infections.
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate care if you experience severe pain, fever over 100.4 °F, redness spreading toward your cheek or forehead, vision changes, or if swelling persists beyond 48 hours despite home care. Immunocompromised patients or children with nasal discharge accompanying lacrimal swelling should be evaluated without delay.
Foods to Eat & Avoid
Eat:
Citrus fruits and berries (vitamin C)
Fatty fish like salmon (omega-3)
Leafy greens (antioxidants, zinc)
Garlic and ginger (anti-microbial)
Yogurt with live cultures (probiotics)
Nuts and seeds (selenium)
Turmeric-spiced dishes (curcumin)
Lean poultry and beans (protein for repair)
Whole grains (steady energy)
Plenty of water (mucous hydration)
Avoid:
Sugary snacks and sodas (inflammation)
Processed meats (preservatives)
Excess alcohol (immune suppression)
Tobacco smoke (irritation)
Excess caffeine (dehydration)
Spicy foods (may worsen inflammation)
Dairy overload (can thicken mucus)
High-salt snacks (can dehydrate tissues)
Fried foods (promote inflammation)
Artificial sweeteners (gut microbiome imbalance)
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes dacryocystitis?
Blockage of the tear duct—often from infection, inflammation, or age-related narrowing—lets bacteria build up in the lacrimal sac.What are the main symptoms?
Inner-eye-corner pain, redness, swelling, tearing, and sometimes yellowish discharge or fever in acute cases.Is dacryocystitis contagious?
No—while the infection can spread to nearby tissues, you can’t “catch” it from someone else.Can home remedies cure it?
Warm compresses and massage help with minor or early blockages, but persistent infection needs antibiotics.How long does treatment take?
Acute infections typically clear in 7–10 days with antibiotics; chronic cases may need surgery for permanent relief.Will I need surgery?
If non-surgical therapies fail or the blockage recurs, DCR or balloon dilation is usually recommended.Can babies get it?
Yes—newborns often have under-developed ducts. Gentle sac massage at home resolves most cases by age one.Does it affect vision?
Only if the infection spreads behind the eye (orbital cellulitis), which is rare but serious.Are contact lenses allowed?
Avoid lenses until the infection is fully treated to reduce irritation and bacterial spread.Can it come back?
Yes, without surgery or if underlying causes (e.g., nasal polyps) persist.How painful is the massage?
It can be mildly uncomfortable but should not cause sharp pain—stop if it hurts too much.What follow-up is needed?
Re-evaluate 1–2 weeks after antibiotics; surgical patients need postop checks for flap healing.Are there alternative therapies?
Some use acupuncture or homeopathic drops, but clinical evidence remains limited.Does diet really help?
An anti-inflammatory diet supports overall immunity, which may reduce infection risk.When is referral to a specialist required?
If symptoms worsen despite treatment, or if an abscess or orbital involvement is suspected, see an ophthalmologist.
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The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Updated: August 02, 2025.
