Эпифора (Epiphora)

Epiphora is a profuse secretion of tear fluid from the eyes, in which tears even drip onto the cheeks. Epiphora develops as a result of any anomalies in the lacrimal ducts (see Lacrimal apparatus).

With epiphora, there is a disruption in the outflow of tears from the conjunctival sac into the nasopharynx. This leads to overflow of the conjunctival sac and overflow of tears outward. The tear flows onto the skin of the cheek, which causes irritation and redness of the skin.

The causes of epiphora can be:

1. Congenital or acquired obstruction of the lacrimal ducts (for example, with dacryocystitis).

2. Impaired function of the lacrimal pump due to facial paralysis.

3. Reduced capacity of the conjunctival sac due to scar changes.

Conservative and surgical methods are used to treat epiphora. Conservative treatment includes rinsing the lacrimal ducts and prescribing tear substitutes. If conservative therapy is ineffective, surgical restoration of the patency of the lacrimal ducts is performed.