From the Research
Lacrimal syringing can cause mild discomfort but is generally not very painful. Before the procedure, your doctor will typically apply topical anesthetic eye drops (such as proparacaine or tetracaine) to numb the eye area, which significantly reduces any pain 1. You might feel pressure or a strange sensation as the saline solution is flushed through your tear ducts, and some patients experience mild stinging or a feeling of water running down the back of their throat. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes to complete. If you have a complete blockage in your tear duct, you might feel slightly more discomfort as the fluid encounters resistance. After the procedure, you may experience temporary mild irritation or redness, which typically resolves quickly. The procedure is performed to diagnose or treat blocked tear ducts, and the minor discomfort experienced is generally outweighed by the diagnostic information gained or the relief provided when blockages are cleared.
Key Points to Consider
- The use of topical anesthetic eye drops reduces pain during the procedure 1
- The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with mild discomfort being the most common sensation experienced by patients
- The benefits of lacrimal syringing, including diagnosis and treatment of blocked tear ducts, outweigh the minor discomfort associated with the procedure
- The procedure is typically quick, taking only a few minutes to complete
- Temporary mild irritation or redness may occur after the procedure, but this usually resolves quickly
Important Considerations for Patient Care
- Patient comfort and anxiety should be addressed before and during the procedure
- Topical anesthetic eye drops should be used to minimize pain and discomfort
- Patients should be informed about the potential benefits and risks of the procedure, including the possibility of mild discomfort
- Follow-up care should be provided to address any concerns or complications that may arise after the procedure