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Blocked Tear Duct

Nasolacrimal Duct Blockage

A block tear duct, also known as nasolacrimal duct blockage, is the obstruction of a duck's tear ducts. It occurs as a result of narrowing of the ducts, due to thickening, swelling, inflammation, abnormal tissue growth (such as nasal polyps), or tumors. Depending on the cause, sometimes the early stages may just require keeping the eye clean to prevent infection. However, in many cases the duck will require their tear duct to be flushed. This is done by your veterinarian while the duck is under general anesthesia.

Symptoms

Foamy or bubble eye

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam

Treatment

MethodMethod Summary
Supportive careIsolate the bird from the flock and place in a safe, comfortable, warm location (your own duck "intensive care unit") with easy access to water and food. Limit stress. Call your veterinarian.
Early stagesKeep the eye clean and gently wipe away drainage with a moist, clean cotton ball or washcloth.
Otherwise, flushing of the tear duct may be neededUnder general anesthesia, your veterinarian will need to flush the duct with saline solution.

Prevention

References

Blogs

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