Suffering from Watery Eyes? Could Canaliculitis Be the Cause?
Posted by AccuSpire on Oct 29th 2024
There are many causes of watery eyes, one of which is lacrimal canaliculitis, also known as canaliculitis. Canaliculitis is an infection in the tear ducts that causes inflammation and blockage within the tear drainage system. This condition is typically caused by fungi, bacteria, or viruses. When the tear ducts are blocked, tears may reflux back into the eye, leading to overflow.
Watery eyes are a primary symptom of canaliculitis, along with discharge, redness, and tenderness around the affected area. Below, we’ll look at the causes in more detail.
Bacteria
The most common bacterial cause of canaliculitis is Actinomyces israelii, though other bacteria can also be responsible.
Viral
Herpetic infections, specifically those caused by the herpes simplex virus, are one of the common viral contributors to this condition.
Fungi
Though less common, fungal infections from Aspergillus or Candida species can also cause canaliculitis.
When detected early, canaliculitis can be effectively managed. If you’re experiencing persistent watery eyes, it’s important to consult an ophthalmologist. However, watery eyes are not always due to canaliculitis, so it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis.
Canaliculitis treatment begins with flushing the canaliculus to clear any debris, pus, or other particles. The next step depends on the type of infection. For bacterial infections, the canaliculus is irrigated with a penicillin G solution; however, patients allergic to penicillin should inform their doctor to receive an alternative. Once debris is flushed, a topical antibiotic solution is applied. For fungal infections, specific antifungal medications are used, with nystatin being a common choice.
Timely treatment can alleviate watery eyes and associated discomfort. At home, if irritation persists, a warm compress can provide soothing relief and help remove foreign materials. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for using warm compresses.
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