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Lacrimal glands are the tear producing glands located above each eyeball. They   continuously supply tear fluid that gets wiped across your eye surface each time you blink your eyelids. A common problem is the inflammation or swelling of the lacrimal gland. 

What are the Symptoms of Lacrimal Gland inflammation?

Symptoms of Lacrimal Gland inflammation include:

• Discomfort in the region of the tear ducts
• Dry eyes
• Excessive discharge or tearing
• Inflammation of the outer portion of the upper lid
• Tenderness and redness of the outer portion of the upper lid
• Inflammation of lymph nodes in front of the ear
• Pain in the area of inflammation

What Causes Lacrimal Gland swelling?

Lacrimal Gland swelling may be acute or chronic. Acute swelling is caused by a  bacterial or viral infection such as mumps, Epstein-Barr virus, gonococcus and staphylococcus. Chronic swelling could be due to non-infectious inflammatory disorders such as thyroid eye disorder, sarcoidosis and orbital pseudotumor. 

How is  Lacrimal Gland inflammation diagnosed? 

To diagnose Lacrimal Gland swelling, your doctor will conduct an examination of the eyes and lids. Special diagnostic tests such as CT scan may be conducted to identify the cause of the inflammation. In certain cases, a biopsy may also be done to rule out the presence of a lacrimal gland tumour. 

How is Lacrimal Gland swelling Treated ? 

Based on the results of the diagnostic tests, the cause of the lacrimal gland swelling is determined. Depending on the cause of the swelling, the condition is treated. If the cause is a viral condition such as the mumps, your doctor will prescribe rest and warm compresses. If a more serious underlying disease is the cause, the disease will be first treated. Most patients recover completely from lacrimal gland swelling. 

Apollo Support

We, at Apollo Clinic, understand the uneasiness caused by a lacrimal gland swelling. Our team of highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologists, optometrists, orthoptists, eye doctors and other staff will take every measure possible to offer a smooth treatment experience. We are well-equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, amenities and latest technologies to diagnose and treat a lacrimal gland inflammation effectively.