kyynelvuodon

Kyynelvuoto, often referred to as epiphora, is a medical condition characterized by the excessive overflow of tears from the eyes. This can occur for a variety of reasons, broadly categorized into overproduction of tears or impaired drainage of tears.

Tear overproduction, or hyperlacrimation, can be triggered by irritants such as dust, smoke, or allergens, leading to reflex tearing. Certain eye conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye), keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), or foreign bodies in the eye can also stimulate the tear glands to produce more tears. Eyelid abnormalities, such as entropion (inward turning of the eyelid) or ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid), can also cause irritation and reflex tearing.

Impaired tear drainage is another significant cause of kyynelvuoto. The lacrimal system, responsible for draining tears away from the eye, consists of puncta, canaliculi, the lacrimal sac, and the nasolacrimal duct, which empties into the nasal cavity. Blockages or narrowing at any point in this pathway can lead to tear accumulation and overflow. These blockages can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired due to inflammation, infection, trauma, or aging. Facial nerve palsy can also affect the blinking mechanism, which aids in tear drainage.

Diagnosis of kyynelvuoto involves a thorough eye examination, a review of medical history, and sometimes specific tests to assess tear production and drainage. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may range from simple measures like artificial tears or avoidance of irritants to medical or surgical interventions to address blockages or underlying eye conditions.