Watery or teary eyes are a common issue that can stem from many different causes. While it might seem harmless, persistent tearing can sometimes indicate an underlying problem requiring medical attention. In this blog, we’ll explore the typical causes, symptoms, and treatments for watery eyes, helping you recognize the issue early and seek appropriate care.

What Causes Watery Eyes?

One of the most common causes of watery eyes is irritation of the eye surface, often due to dry eyes. Other frequent causes include blocked tear ducts and misaligned eyelids. Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis or keratitis, can also lead to excessive tearing.

Typically, treating watery eyes involves soothing the eye surface with artificial tears and addressing any infections that may be present. In cases where eyelid misalignment is the cause, a surgical procedure may be needed to correct the issue. Additionally, tear duct flushing, which a general practitioner can perform, may be necessary.

Treating Watery Eyes

Treatment for watery eyes depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment approaches:

• Artificial Tears: Often used to calm the eye surface, especially in cases of dryness or mild irritation.

• Antibiotic or Anti-Inflammatory Drops: Used for infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis.

• Surgical Correction: For eyelid issues such as entropion (inward-turning eyelid) or ectropion (outward-turning eyelid).

• Tear Duct Flushing: General practitioners can perform this procedure for tear duct blockages, particularly in adults.

A Closer Look at Common Causes

1. Tear Duct Blockage

• Cause: When the tear duct is blocked, tears cannot drain properly, causing overflow.

• Symptoms: Excessive tearing, recurring conjunctivitis.

• Treatment: Tear duct flushing or, in severe cases, surgery.

2. Inward-Turning Eyelid (Entropion)

• Cause: The eyelid turns inward, causing lashes to rub against the cornea.

• Symptoms: Pain, redness, foreign body sensation.

• Treatment: Surgical correction to reposition the eyelid

3. Outward-Turning Eyelid (Ectropion)

• Cause: The eyelid turns outward, leading to exposure and dryness.

• Symptoms: Tearing, redness, dry eye symptoms.

• Treatment: Surgical procedure to correct eyelid positioning.

4. Dry Eyes

• Cause: Paradoxically, dry eyes can cause excessive tearing as the eye tries to compensate.

• Symptoms: Dry, gritty feeling, itching.

• Treatment: Moisturizing eye drops and environmental adjustments

5. Eyelid Inflammation (Blepharitis)

• Cause: Inflammation of the eyelid edge, leading to irritation and tearing.

• Symptoms: Itching, foreign body sensation, discharge.

• Treatment: Regular cleaning of the eyelids and sometimes antibiotic treatment.

6. Conjunctivitis

• Cause: Infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which can be viral, bacterial, or allergic.

• Symptoms: Redness, itching, tearing, especially in the mornings.

• Treatment: Antibiotics for bacterial infections; antivirals or anti-allergy drops for viral and allergic cases.

7. Corneal Inflammation (Keratitis)

• Cause: Inflammation of the cornea, requiring prompt treatment due to risk of vision impairment.

• Symptoms: Tearing, pain, sensitivity to light.

• Treatment: Antibiotics or antivirals under the care of an eye specialist.

8. Foreign Objects in the Eye

• Cause: Particles like dust or debris can cause irritation.

• Symptoms: Tearing, redness, pain.

• Treatment: Removal of the foreign object, sometimes requiring medical assistance.

Summary and Recommendations

Watery eyes are a multifaceted symptom with a variety of potential causes. While many cases are mild and can be managed at home, others may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. If you experience persistent tearing along with pain, redness, or vision problems, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. Early treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life significantly.