Lacrimal Sac Problems and Eyelid Corner Swelling: Diagnosis & Treatments

Lacrimal sac problems and eyelid corner swelling can cause discomfort and worry. The lacrimal sac is a small part of your tear drainage system, found near the inner corner of your eye. When this area swells, it may signal a blocked tear duct, infection, or other issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are important. They help prevent complications and protect your vision. In this blog, you will learn about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention tips for lacrimal sac problems and eyelid corner swelling.

Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of lacrimal sac problems and eyelid corner swelling is important. Early attention can help you get the right care. Common symptoms include:

  • Swelling at the inner corner of the eye
  • Pain or tenderness near the nose or eyelid
  • Redness around the eye corner
  • Watery eyes or tears overflowing
  • Yellow or white discharge from the eye
  • Blurry vision in some cases
  • Feeling of fullness or a lump near the eye
  • Sometimes, symptoms may come and go. However, if they last or get worse, you should seek medical advice.

    Causes

    Many factors can lead to lacrimal sac problems and swelling at the eyelid corner. Some common causes include:

  • Blocked tear duct in adults or children
  • Lacrimal sac infection (also called dacryocystitis)
  • Injury or trauma to the nose or eye area
  • Sinus infections spreading to the tear duct
  • Growths or stones blocking the tear pathway
  • Age-related narrowing of the tear duct
  • Chronic eye inflammation or allergies
  • In addition, people with nasal or sinus problems may have a higher risk. Sometimes, previous eye surgeries can also increase the chance of blockage.

    Diagnosis

    Doctors use several steps to diagnose lacrimal sac problems and eyelid corner swelling. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they will examine your eye and the area near your nose. During the exam, your doctor may:

  • Press gently on the swollen area to check for pain or discharge
  • Use a special dye to see if tears drain properly
  • Shine a light to look for redness or infection
  • Order imaging tests, like an ultrasound or CT scan, if needed
  • Sometimes, your doctor may collect a sample of any discharge. This helps find out if bacteria are causing an infection. Early and accurate diagnosis is key for the best treatment.

    Treatments

    Treatment for lacrimal sac problems and eyelid corner swelling depends on the cause. For mild cases, simple steps may help. However, more serious problems may need medical or surgical care. Common treatments include:

  • Warm compresses to reduce swelling and pain
  • Antibiotic eye drops or pills for infections
  • Gentle massage of the tear duct (for some blockages)
  • Flushing or probing the tear duct to clear blockages
  • Surgery to create a new drainage path (dacryocystorhinostomy)
  • Removal of stones or growths if present
  • If symptoms do not improve, or if you have repeated infections, you may need to see an eye specialist. They can offer advanced treatments for stubborn cases.

    Prevention and Self-Care

    While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk with some simple steps. Here are some tips:

  • Wash your hands before touching your eyes
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially if they feel irritated
  • Remove eye makeup fully every night
  • Use clean towels and avoid sharing them
  • Treat sinus or nasal infections early
  • Follow your doctor’s advice after any eye surgery
  • If you notice mild swelling, try a warm compress. However, if symptoms last more than a few days, seek medical help.

    When to See a Doctor

    Some signs indicate that you should see an ophthalmologist soon. Watch for:

  • Swelling that does not go away
  • Severe pain or redness
  • Yellow or green discharge
  • Fever or feeling very unwell
  • Sudden changes in vision
  • Early care can prevent serious problems. If you are unsure, it is always safer to consult a doctor.

    If you notice persistent swelling or discomfort near your eye, consult an ophthalmologist at Geetha Eye Hospital for personalised guidance and care.