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A blocked tear duct mainly causes constant tearing and discharge near the inner corner of the eye. Conjunctivitis, often called pink eye, causes diffuse redness across the white of the eye along with irritation. In blocked ducts, the eye itself may look fairly white while tears overflow. In conjunctivitis, the entire surface appears inflamed.
read more about blocked tear conjunctivitis ...Discharge patterns also differ. Conjunctivitis often produces thicker discharge that affects the whole lid margin. Blocked ducts tend to cause mucus or crusting mostly at the inner corner. An eye care provider can quickly confirm which condition is present during an exam.
Conjunctivitis usually causes noticeable redness over most of the eye. A blocked tear duct may cause only mild redness near the inner corner or none at all. The overall color difference is a helpful clue.
Mild tenderness or pressure can occur near the inner corner. Strong pain, light sensitivity, or deep ache is more typical of infection or other eye problems. These symptoms should always be checked.
Conjunctivitis can cause tearing, but irritation and redness are the main features. A blocked duct produces more continuous overflow of tears down the cheek. The pattern helps distinguish between the two.
Yes, an infection such as conjunctivitis can occur along with a drainage problem. This may lead to both redness and increased tearing. In these situations, medical treatment is especially important.
Conjunctivitis usually causes red, inflamed conjunctiva, itchy or burning eyes and discharge; blocked tear ducts cause tearing and crusting but little redness.
An eye exam will check for conjunctival inflammation, test tear drainage and may involve fluorescein dye to see if tears flow into the nose.
If tearing is accompanied by redness, pain, fever or vision changes, see a doctor. Proper diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment.