nenänkyynelkanavaa

Nenänkyynelkanava, also known scientifically as the nasolacrimal duct, is a crucial anatomical structure in the human eye. Its primary function is to drain tears from the lacrimal lake, the area of the eye where tears collect, into the nasal cavity. This drainage system is essential for maintaining the proper moisture balance of the eye's surface and for removing debris and irritants.

The nasolacrimal duct begins at the puncta, small openings located at the inner corners of the upper and lower eyelids. From the puncta, tears flow into the lacrimal canaliculi, which then converge into the lacrimal sac. The lacrimal sac is a small reservoir situated in a groove between the eyeball and the nose. From the lacrimal sac, the tears descend through the nasolacrimal duct and finally empty into the inferior meatus of the nasal cavity.

Blockage or dysfunction of the nasolacrimal duct can lead to several ophthalmological conditions. Excessive tearing, known as epiphora, is a common symptom, as tears cannot drain effectively and overflow onto the face. Infections of the lacrimal sac, called dacryocystitis, can also occur if the duct is obstructed, leading to pain, redness, and swelling around the inner corner of the eye. In infants, congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction is relatively common and often resolves spontaneously within the first year of life. Treatment for nasolacrimal duct issues can range from conservative measures like massage and warm compresses to surgical interventions such as probing or dacryocystorhinostomy.