Recognize dacryocystitis, an infection that causes the inner corner of the eye to swell

Dacryocystitis is a type of infection that attacks the tear ducts. It is characterized by swelling in the inner corner of the eye (which is close to the nose) and tears that continue to flow. Swelling occurs in the inner corner of the eye because the tear outlet is located in that area. What tests will be carried out and how to treat the inner corner of the eye swelling? Check out the full explanation in this article.

What are the triggers for dacryocystitis?

Infection that makes the inner corner of the eye swell can be caused by many things. Some of the causes are quite trivial and some are worrying. The following are some of the possible causes of dacryocystitis.

• The shape of the tear ducts. The shape is narrower in women, causing women to be more prone to suffer from this disease than men.
• Recurrent eye infections with large amounts of eye discharge.
• Blockage of the tear duct by a polyp or tumor.
• Lack of personal hygiene, especially the eyes or hands.

Recognizing the symptoms and characteristics of a tear duct infection

There are several other symptoms that can arise in the early stages of the disease such as fever and also pain in the inner corner of the eye. In a more advanced phase, swelling and redness can spread to the lower eyelid, even to the cheek area.

Meanwhile, in most cases who do not undergo treatment, a hole will form in the area around the bottom of the eyelid. This can occur as a result of retained pus.

What checks need to be done?

Examination with an ophthalmologist in general alone is sufficient to confirm this disease. Further examination such as dacryocystography new will be done for those of you who suffer from recurrent dacryocystitis or for those of you who are suspected of having a tear duct deformity.

This examination can determine the exact location and cause of the blockage by injecting a special fluid into the cavity of the tear duct.

How to treat the inner corner of the eye swelling due to infection?

Treatment of the inner corner of the swollen eye will be carried out according to your individual condition. Here's the guide.

• Reddish phase. During this phase, you may be prescribed oral antibiotics and pain medication. You can also warm the eyes to relieve the symptoms.
• Swollen phase (already contains pus). Apart from administering antibiotics, a small operation will be performed to remove the pus.
• Healing phase. When the redness and swelling have disappeared, an operation will be performed to cover the hollow area that was filled with pus. This action needs to be done to prevent the infection from recurring.

What will happen if it is not treated?

Don't underestimate a tear duct infection that can make the inner corner of the eye swell. The reason is, these things might arise as complications if this condition is not treated immediately.

• The eye infection will come back and happen again.
• The infection spreads to the bones around the eye.
• Sinusitis.
• The lower eyelid is pulled outward.
• Eczema on the skin of the cheeks and around them due to long-term exposure to tears.