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A dacryolith is a small stone-like deposit that develops inside the tear duct. These deposits block tear flow and create swelling or discharge. Some stones form from debris mixed with mucus and tears. Adults show this more than children. Exams help determine the size and location of the stone.
read more about dacryolith tear duct stone ...Material inside the duct can clump into a firm mass. Long standing inflammation encourages debris buildup. Infection can trap mucus in the duct. Tissue changes in the tear pathway create narrow pockets where stones form. Each cause leads to sluggish tear movement.
People notice tearing that spills over the cheek. Pressure near the inner corner feels uncomfortable. Discharge can appear when mucus collects behind the stone. Redness shows during flare ups. Pain increases if infection starts.
Doctors examine the tear duct opening and press gently on the sac. Imaging helps locate the stone. Dye testing shows how tears move through the duct. Long term symptoms provide added clues. Findings guide the next steps.
A dacryolith (tear duct stone) can keep tearing and infections coming back, so an eye exam helps confirm the blockage and the best next step. Warm compresses and lid hygiene can help comfort, but the stone often needs removal or tear duct treatment if symptoms persist. Watch for redness, swelling near the inner corner, fever, or worsening discharge since infection can spread. If pain or swelling increases quickly, get urgent care.
Pain increases when swelling or infection occurs.
Stones can recur when debris builds up again.
Vision stays clear though tearing can blur the surface for short periods.
Seek care when tearing and discharge persist.
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Dacryolithiasis A Review. PubMed (National Library of Medicine, NIH). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27533513/. Published 2017
Canaliculitis. American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Canaliculitis. Published on December 2, 2025
Clinical analysis of 338 cases of dacryolithiasis. PubMed (National Library of Medicine, NIH). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40067167/. Published 2025