Eye health is important, so when issues like watery eyes arise, it's natural to wonder if something more serious could be lurking around the corner.
If you’ve experienced watery eyes, you’re not alone. In fact, most people have experienced watery eyes at some point, with people of all ages affected. However, chronic watery eyes are more common in infants and older adults over the age of 50.
Let’s explore what watery eyes are, why they happen, and how you can prevent them in order to keep your eyes healthy year-round.
Key takeaways
- Watery eyes, also known as epiphora, occur when eyes produce too many tears or when tears are prevented from draining properly away from the eyes.
- Common symptoms associated with epiphora include eye pain, redness, itchiness, and blurred vision.
- Allergies, injuries of the eyelids, eye infections, and environmental factors are all common causes of watery eyes.
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Why do my eyes keep watering?
Epiphora, the medical term for watery eyes, is an extremely common occurrence. It happens when an outside factor causes your eyes to produce too many tears or prevents tears from draining properly away from your eyes.
Most times, watery eyes are not a cause for concern.
Epiphora can affect both eyes or just one eye, which is referred to as unilateral epiphora.
The following symptoms can signal epiphora:
- Eyes that feel/appear too wet or watery
- Too many tears building up in the eyes
- Tears running down the face
Depending on the root cause, epiphora can cause other issues surrounding the eye, including:
- Eye pain
- Eye redness/swelling
- Itchiness
- Cloudy or blurry vision
- Sinus headaches
Although epiphora can occur suddenly without apparent reason, there is often another issue or condition to blame, such as allergies or an eye infection.
Common causes of eye watering
Epiphora can occur due to several common factors.
It is often temporary, and many times doesn’t require treatment. However, other underlying reasons can signify a serious eye infection or even a blockage of the tear ducts. In these cases, a visit to your healthcare provider can help you find relief.
According to Mayo Clinic, some of the most common causes of epiphora include:
- Allergies
- Eye injuries (corneal abrasions, etc.)
- Infections (pink eye or sinusitis)
- Blocked tear ducts
- Dry eyes
- Styes
- Environmental factors (smoke, toxins)
- Foreign objects (dirt, dust, and debris)
Allergies
Allergies are a common culprit behind watery eyes. This is known as allergic conjunctivitis.
When the body is exposed to an allergen, it releases histamine that can cause inflammation of the eyes, resulting in increased tear production.
This can be caused by exposure to allergens in the environment, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold. Other irritants can include chemicals, smoke, and contact lenses.
To treat allergic conjunctivitis, avoid or limit exposure to environmental allergens, and use over-the-counter antihistamine drops or artificial tears that can help lubricate the eyes.
Eye injuries/eye problems
Eye injuries are among the many reasons behind epiphora, and this includes more than physical trauma.
From blunt-force trauma to recovery from certain surgical procedures, there can be many causes for injury to the eye.
Something as simple as an irritated ingrown eyelash, for example, can lead to inflammation and infection of the eyelids if not treated, which can also contribute to watery eyes.
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Blocked tear ducts
Blocked tear ducts, also referred to as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, are one of the most common culprits behind watery eyes, and they can happen for different reasons.
These can include congenital factors, infections like pink eye, and even nasal infections such as sinusitis.
Other common causes of blocked tear ducts include allergies, normal narrowing of the tear ducts caused by age, and even certain cosmetic procedures like eyelid surgery.
To unclog tear ducts naturally, consider applying warm compresses, such as a warm washcloth, and gently massaging the inner corner of the eye can help unclog tear ducts.
Pink eye
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common cause of watery eyes.
This condition, which causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, causes increased tear production, a hallmark of watery eyes. Other symptoms, such as irritation, redness, and discharge, can accompany pink eye.
Dry eyes
It may seem counterintuitive, but watery eyes can be caused by dry eyes.
Dry eyes happen when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, they evaporate too quickly to keep your eyes properly lubricated, or due to issues with the eye's tear drainage system. The result is a feeling of discomfort that can include a dry, gritty feeling.
The following are the most common symptoms associated with dry eyes:
- Burning or stinging
- Watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Risk factors for dry eyes
Unfortunately, you can’t always control whether you get dry eyes. For example, dry eyes can occur due to the natural aging process, which includes natural declines in tear production, hormonal shifts, and changes in tear composition.
However, there are certain risk factors that may put you at greater risk for dry eyes and other symptoms. Avoiding these factors can help prevent dry eyes altogether. Some of these include:
Environmental factors
Certain environmental and lifestyle factors can impact your eye health. Things like changes in weather, dry air, daily screen time, and contact lens use can all increase your chances of dry eyes. Other factors, like applying cosmetics or false eyelashes and allergies, can worsen dry eyes.
Medical conditions
Various medical conditions can contribute to dry eyes. These can include neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, endocrine conditions, and eye diseases. Even certain surgeries, such as LASIK, cataracts, or corneal surgery, can all increase your risk of developing dry eye.
If you are concerned about how certain medical conditions can affect your eyes, speak to your doctor.
Best treatment for watery eyes
The best method to treat watery eyes will depend on the underlying cause.
For example, if dry eyes are to blame for watery eyes, you will need to keep your eyes lubricated to avoid further issues.
Other treatments for symptoms associated with watery eyes can include:
- Medication that helps keep eyes moist (eye drops)
- Clearing blocked tear ducts
- Removing foreign objects
- Repairing the eyes
If you are experiencing any new eye issues or vision changes, it is important to visit a trained eye doctor or optometrist. Oculus Eyecare is committed to helping patients achieve clear vision through diagnostics and ongoing care.
Scheduling an appointment with an eye doctor may include a full examination of the eye as well as additional testing to determine the root cause of epiphora.
Once the cause of your watery eyes is determined, your eye doctor may prescribe artificial tears, medicated eye drops, or other over-the-counter medications to help you find relief.
Conclusion
Eye problems, such as watery eyes, can be alarming. The good news is that conditions like epiphora are not always serious and can be treated at home or with the help of an eye doctor.
Whether you are dealing with watery eyes, dry eyes, or a more serious issue such as vision loss, scheduling an appointment with your eye doctor is the best way to find the proper treatment.
Your eye health is too important to leave to chance. By preventing eye issues before they start, you can enjoy healthy, clear vision no matter your age.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which vitamin deficiency causes watery eyes?
Watery eyes may be caused by severe vitamin deficiencies. Potential causes include severe deficiencies of vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin C, and vitamin D.
What illness gives you watery eyes?
Common illnesses associated with watery eyes include eye infections like pink eye, blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), and thyroid disease, among others.
What is the best medicine for watery eyes?
Some of the most effective treatments for watery eyes include antihistamine eye drops, oral antihistamines, and corticosteroid eye drops. It is important to consult an eye doctor before attempting at-home care for watery eyes caused by infection.
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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.