You may probably be aware that tears are produced in the lachrymal glands which are located just below the eyebrow bone. From here they go into the eye through ducts located along the eyelid. The resulting blocked tear duct or blocked naso- lachrymal duct is a disorder of the eye that can result a great deal of discomfort. This blockage is sometimes known to be partial, whilst at other times, it can be complete. A variety of symptoms, ranging from a yellowish secretion from the eyes to the tears concentrating into the corners of the eyes, is indicative of blocked tear ducts. The blockage of the tear duct leads to the tears overflowing over the cheeks rather than flowing down into the nose as it is normally expected. Needless to say, if this condition is not identified and diagnosed in good time, it may often lead to serious discomfort. In fact, is important to bear in mind, that if your blockage is persistent and is not clearing away over a long period of time, it could also lead to an infection in the eye. The consistent overflow of tears onto the cheek is an indication of some other serious underlying disorders.
One of the most effective options that can be used to tackle blocked tear ducts is to simulate them with some warm and moist compressions. You can take a vessel of slightly warm water and add a small amount of boric acid powder to it. You will then need to take a clean cotton towel or washcloth and by dipping it into the solution, place it on the affected eye. Repeating this process for around five minutes and about twice or thrice a day is believed to be quite effective in treating your condition. You can also lightly massage your eyelids. Do ensure that you do not rub your eyelids. It is preferable to massage them in a clockwise or anticlockwise manner. This exercise can also be done approximately three to four times a day. It is strongly recommended to avoid any eye irritants as well as excessive rubbing of the eyes. Another good idea is to avoid sharing your handkerchief or hand towels with anybody else. One alternative that is known to be effective is to make use of a chamomile tea bag. Boil water in a vessel for a few minutes and allow the teabag to steep in it for a while. After it has cooled down, take the teabag and place it over the affected eye to alleviate your condition.