If you have dry eyes, you may have had punctal plugs inserted to help keep your tears from draining too quickly. The small, biocompatible devices are inserted into the tiny openings in your tear ducts, known as puncta, to create a temporary or permanent blockage. While these plugs can significantly improve your dry eye symptoms, they can occasionally fall out. Here’s how to tell if your punctal plug has fallen out:
1. Check for Visual Signs
One of the most obvious signs that your punctal plug has fallen out is a visible absence of the plug. If you can no longer see the plug in the punctum, it may have fallen out. However, this is not always the case since punctal plugs are small and may not be visible to the naked eye.
2. Monitor Your Dry Eye Symptoms
If you have dry eyes and had punctal plugs inserted, you likely experienced an improvement in your dry eye symptoms. If you notice that your dry eye symptoms have returned or worsened, your punctal plug may have fallen out. Keep track of your symptoms and contact your eye doctor if you notice any changes.
3. Look for Discharge
If your punctal plug falls out, you may notice a discharge around the punctum. This discharge may be clear or slightly cloudy, and can occur when the tear duct is no longer blocked by the plug. If you notice any discharge, contact your eye doctor as soon as possible.
4. Check Your Tear Production
Punctal plugs help keep your tears on your eyes for longer, so if your plug has fallen out, you may notice that your eyes feel dry or that you are producing less tears. If you notice any changes in your tear production, it may be a sign that your punctal plug has fallen out and you should contact your eye doctor.
5. Contact Your Eye Doctor
If you suspect that your punctal plug has fallen out, contact your eye doctor as soon as possible. They will be able to examine your eyes and determine if your plug has indeed fallen out or if there is another reason for your symptoms. They may also recommend replacing the plug or trying a different treatment for your dry eyes.
Conclusion
Punctal plugs are a great way to manage dry eyes, but they can occasionally fall out. If you suspect that your plug has fallen out, check for visual signs, monitor your dry eye symptoms, look for discharge, check your tear production, and contact your eye doctor. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further discomfort and damage to your eyes.