Watery eyes can be a normal and benign phenomenon. However, sometimes watery eyes can be a sign of an underlying condition. When it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as stinging or pain, the problem is more obvious. When no other symptoms exist, it is not as easy to determine the underlying cause. That's why, when excessive and unexplained tearing occurs, it's best to make an appointment and get the advice of an optometrist.
Here are the top 8 causes of watery eyes:
1. Eye irritation and tearing
Irritation on the surface of the eye, due to foreign particles, ambient air or irritating products, can cause excessive tearing. When the cornea is affected, the production of tears increases. This "reflex" has the advantage of helping the eye to eliminate foreign objects when necessary.
Note that most often, the lacrimal discharge from a corneal injury often causes redness or significant pain. This will quickly alert you to an injury or inflammation.
2. Conjunctivitis and weeping eyes
This inflammation of the membrane that covers the surface of the eye and the inside of the eyelid can cause excessive tearing and redness of the eye. Allergic conjunctivitis often appears in the spring and is not dangerous to your eyes.
In the case of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, watery eyes may be accompanied by pus secretions and redness of the eyes. Make sure you consult a healthcare professional who will prescribe an adapted treatment.
3. Blocked tear ducts
The tear ducts allow tears to flow from the eye to the nose. If these ducts are blocked, because of an infection, your eyes can tear up due to the excess fluid.
4. Allergies and excessive tearing
Allergies can irritate the eyes so that you have watery eyes. You can use eye drops if you suffer from allergies. Eye drops will help with watery eyes by cleaning the eye surface irritated by allergens. Using cold water compresses is also a way to relieve inflammation and reduce tear production.
5. Dry eyes and tear production
Although it may seem contradictory, dry eyes sometimes cause watery eyes. When your eyes are dry, the lacrimal glands produce "reflex" tears. We advise you to use eye drops several times a day to relieve your dry eyes.
6. Entropion and chronic lacrimation
Entropion is a condition that changes the position of the eyelashes. The eyelashes turn inward, continuously rubbing against the eyeball. Because of the irritation caused by the eyelashes touching your eyeball, your eyes begin to water.
7. Ectropion and watery eyes
Ectropion is a condition that changes the position of the eyelid so that it is turned towards the outside of the eye. As with entropion, this condition can cause tear discharge.
8. Acquired dacryostenosis
Acquired dacryostenosis is an age-related narrowing of the tear ducts. This condition can cause excessive and persistent tearing, sometimes requiring surgery.
Don't hesitate to consult an eye doctor if you experience excessive and embarrassing tearing, as this may be a sign of an underlying eye problem.
