Which practice is common to both canaliculitis and dacryocystitis management?

• A. Warm compresses
• B. Avoid any warm compresses
• C. Do not use antibiotics
• D. Eye massage only

Answer: (A)

Warm compresses are a helpful, shared step in managing both canaliculitis and dacryocystitis because they promote drainage and reduce local swelling, easing discomfort and helping secretions move through the tear drainage system.

In canaliculitis, heat helps loosen any dried material or concretions within the canaliculus and supports spontaneous drainage when paired with gentle expression. This supportive measure works alongside antibiotics to address the infection and improve clearance of the obstruction.

In dacryocystitis, warm compresses aid drainage from the inflamed lacrimal sac and alleviate pain and edema, serving as useful adjunctive care while systemic antibiotics are started and definitive management (such as drainage) is planned.

Avoiding warmth would miss a beneficial, simple intervention. Antibiotics are typically part of management for both conditions, and relying on eye massage alone would not adequately address infection or obstruction.