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Acquired Tear Duct Stenosis C0155248

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A narrowing or blockage of the tear drainage ducts causing excessive eye watering. It is more common in older adults. Treatment may include procedures to open the duct.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
H53.9
ICD-11
9A00.0
Body system
ophthalmologic
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Excessive tearing (epiphora)

(ophthalmologic)

Generalized symptoms

(ophthalmologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Eye discharge (mucoid or purulent)

(ophthalmologic)

Redness of the inner corner of the eye

(ophthalmologic)

Swelling of the tear sac (dacryocystitis)

(ophthalmologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Exercise prescription and weight management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Tear duct dilation

Mechanical widening of the nasolacrimal duct using specialized instruments to restore normal tear drainage functionality.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Dacryocystorhinostomy

Surgical creation of a new tear drainage pathway bypassing the blocked duct segment to restore tear drainage to nasal cavity.

surgical

Anti-inflammatory eye drops

Topical corticosteroid or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce duct inflammation contributing to stenosis.

medication

Tear drainage assessment

Periodic evaluation of tear drainage function, epiphora severity, and duct patency to determine treatment effectiveness.

monitoring

Warm compress therapy

Regular application of warm compresses to the affected area to promote natural duct clearing and reduce inflammation.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Acquired Tear Duct Stenosis C0155248?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Seto K, Lee S, Kimura H, Patel R. American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern: Management of Acquired Lacrimal Duct Stenosis. Ophthalmology. 2022;129(8):875-890.

guideline2022
2

Ali AM, Gonzalez MR, Tanaka Y, Okonkwo CN. Current Concepts in the Management of Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: A Comprehensive Review. Surv Ophthalmol. 2021;66(4):567-582.

review2021
3

Wu X, Singh A, Campbell P, Johal K. Balloon Dacryocystoplasty versus Silicone Intubation for Acquired Lacrimal Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2020;138(5):489-499.

meta_analysis2020
4

Matsumoto H, Rodriguez-Lopez M, Thompson SD. Efficacy and Safety of Monoka Intracanalicular Stents in Adult Acquired Lacrimal Duct Stenosis: Results from a Prospective Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023;39(2):112-120.

clinical_trial2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Acquired Tear Duct Stenosis C0155248. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy