Based on the provided reference, there are two tiny ducts in the eye used for draining excess tears.
The eye's complex system includes various components for maintaining health and function, including the production and drainage of tears. Tears are essential for lubricating, cleaning, and protecting the eye's surface.
Excess tears, beyond what is needed to keep the eye moist, need a way to leave the eye area. According to the reference provided:
"When we blink, the eyelids smooth and spread the tear film so that it is uniform across the surface of the cornea. Excess tears flow out of the eye into two tiny ducts, which then drain into the nasal passage."
These specific ducts are part of the tear drainage system, often referred to as the lacrimal ducts or puncta (the openings of these ducts). They are located in the inner corner of each eye, near the nose.
The Tear Drainage Process
The tear drainage process involves several steps:
- Tear Production: Tears are produced by the lacrimal glands and accessory glands.
- Spreading: Blinking spreads the tear film across the cornea and conjunctiva.
- Collection: Excess tears collect in the inner corner of the eye (the lacrimal lake).
- Drainage: The tears enter the two tiny openings (puncta) which lead to small tubes (canaliculi or ducts).
- Passage to Nose: These ducts merge and drain into a sac (lacrimal sac) and then into a duct (nasolacrimal duct) that empties into the nasal cavity. This is why crying or using eye drops can sometimes cause a runny nose.
The reference specifically identifies two tiny ducts as the entry point for excess tears leaving the eye towards the nasal passage.
Why Drainage is Important
Efficient tear drainage is crucial. If these ducts become blocked, tears can build up, leading to:
- Watery eyes (epiphora)
- Increased risk of eye infections
- Discomfort and blurred vision
Understanding the function of these two tiny ducts highlights a key part of the eye's natural maintenance system.
