Lacrimal syringing: attack the block
2 August 2024
Summer 2024
Now performed by more optometrists in practice, lacrimal syringing is one way of investigating blockages and treating epiphora.
Lacrimal syringing is the most frequently performed test in clinical practice to investigate whether blockages in the lacrimal ducts are the cause of epiphora (Nakamura et al, 2023). Other causes of excessive tear production are infection, inflammation, allergy, entropion, a foreign body in the eye or certain prescribed medications (such as pilocarpine), or the lacrimal pump mechanism may fail due to lid position abnormalities. In lacrimal syringing, sterile saline is pushed through a syringe into a cannula in the lower punctum.
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
One in four over-50s has vision impairment and three quarters have some hearing loss.
The College of Optometrists has presented Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh with an Honorary Fellowship of the College in recognition of Her Royal Highness’s outstanding contribution to eye health.
An examination of the links between smoking and eye disease.