Question Title: Blocked duct?

My 3 year old son has had a problem (on and off) with his left eye tearing. He is fair skinned with blue eyes and blonde hair. Since birth he has had the problem with his left eye tearing up, mostly when we are outside or if a breeze hits him in the face (say from a fan). He squints alot when outdoors (and being a very independent little person) he doen't keep sunglasses on for any length of time.

I read in Dr. Spock's book that shortly after birth it is not uncommon for this to happen and may be due to a blocked duct, but should clear up on it's own. While the episodes are further in between, it still happens to him. He has also had quite a few eye infections where alot of green mucous is secreted, mainly from his left eye. I also notice that when he has a cold, his left eye seems to be affected by it as well--more tearing in this eye and some mucous. And lastly, when he gets up in the morning there is always much more "sleep" in his left eye than in his right. Sometimes white-yellow mucous appears (say, in the middle of the day) for no reason at all (that I know of).

Does this sound like a blocked duct and if so, what is the cure?

Thank you very much for your information--I just found your site recently and have found the information here to be GREAT!

3-year-old's Mom ;-)

Yes this very much sounds like a blocked tear duct. At 3 years of age it is unlikely to improve on its own. He likely would benefit from a lacrimal probing and possible silicone stent intubation of his tear system. He should either see a pediatric ophthalmologist or an ophthalmic plastic surgeon, both a very familiar with this common condition. I would recommend having something done sooner rather that later because the longer you wait the more likely the probing will work.

This information was provided for educational purposes only. Call 8003637575 if you live in the Detroit metro area to see one of Henry Ford's ophthalmologist.

HFHS MD-JL