What's a Tear Duct Probe (Treating Tear-Duct Blockage)? (Video)
What's a Tear Duct Probe?
A tear duct is a small tube that drains tears from the eyes. Tears are made in glands under the eyelids. They wash over the eyes to keep them moist and clean. Then, they drain though the tear ducts. When a tear duct is blocked (a blockage), the tears can't drain.
A common procedure call a tear-duct probe can open the blockage.
The ophthalmologist gently passes a thin metal instrument (probe) through the tear duct to open the blockage. Then they flush the duct with sterile water to make sure the pathway is clear.
30-Second Summary: Tear Duct Probe
Learn the basics in 30 seconds.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.
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- Member Support
- Care management
- Caregiver resources
- Child well-being
- Disease management
- Documents and forms
- Enrollment
- Grievances and appeals
- Health and wellness
- KidsHealth
- Member Handbook
- New Member Resources
- News and alerts
- OhioRISE Plan
- Pregnancy outcomes
- Tobacco cessation
- Why Humana
- Your primary care provider
- For Providers
- Contact us
- Accessibility