What causes a blocked tear duct?

What causes a blocked tear duct?

Blocked tear ducts can happen to anyone of any age. Causes of blocked tear ducts include:

• Age: As you get older, your puncta may naturally narrow.
• Congenital blockages: Some babies are born with tear ducts that are narrow or not fully formed (dacryostenosis).
• Infection: Chronic sinus infections or eye infections can lead to blockage.
• Injury: Any eye injury near the tear ducts, even a scrape from tiny dirt particles, can cause a blockage.
• Tumors: A tumor anywhere near the tear ducts, such as in the nose, can cause blocked tear ducts.