Watery eyes, or epiphora, aren't inherently harmful, but they can signal underlying issues. While sometimes a temporary condition, persistent watery eyes can indicate a serious problem.
Understanding Watery Eyes
Watery eyes are a common symptom with various causes. Sometimes, they're simply a response to irritation, like dry eyes or exposure to irritants such as mold spores https://health.ri.gov/healthrisks/mold/ or algal blooms https://www.nps.gov/articles/one-health-disease-algal-blooms.htm. Other times, they're a symptom of a more serious condition.
When Watery Eyes Indicate a Problem
- Eye Infections: Watery eyes can be a sign of a serious eye infection https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17944-epiphora-watery-eyes. For example, measles can cause conjunctivitis, characterized by redness and watery eyes https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/six-ways-measles-can-affect-eyes-2.
- Blocked Tear Ducts: A blockage in the tear ducts can lead to excessive tearing https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17944-epiphora-watery-eyes.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Ironically, watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eyes. The body overcompensates for dryness by producing extra tears https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863.
- Contact Lens Issues: Contact lens-related infections can manifest as unusually watery eyes https://www.cdc.gov/contact-lenses/causes/index.html.
- Chemical Exposure: Exposure to irritants like those found in certain household cleaners can cause watery eyes as a reaction, often accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing, nausea, and throat irritation https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/contaminants/bleach-mixing-dangers.
- Digital Eye Strain: Prolonged use of digital devices can lead to watery eyes as part of the overall symptoms of digital eye strain https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/digital-devices-your-eyes.
When to See a Doctor
If your watery eyes are persistent, accompanied by other symptoms like pain, blurred vision, or difficulty seeing, or if they don't improve with home remedies, consult a healthcare provider. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
