Why Are My Eyes Watering?
Watery eyes, also known as epiphora, can stem from several causes, ranging from simple irritants to underlying medical conditions. Understanding the root cause is key to finding relief.
Several factors can lead to excessive tearing. These include:
- Irritation and Allergies: Exposure to irritants like wind, dust, smoke, or allergens (pollen, pet dander) triggers increased tear production as a protective response. Symptoms often include itchiness and redness alongside watering.
- Infections: Conjunctivitis (pink eye), a common eye infection, causes inflammation and excessive tearing. This is often accompanied by redness, discharge, and possibly crusting.
- Blocked Tear Ducts: Tears normally drain through small tubes (tear ducts). Blockages in these ducts prevent proper drainage, resulting in watery eyes.
- Eyelid Problems: Conditions like ectropion (drooping eyelid) can interfere with tear drainage, causing excessive watering.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Ironically, dry eyes can also lead to excessive tearing. The body tries to compensate for dryness by producing more tears. This often results in a gritty or burning sensation.
- Eye Strain: Prolonged near-work, like reading or computer use, can cause eye strain and trigger increased tear production.
- Weather Conditions: Extreme weather such as wind, cold, or sun can irritate the eyes, leading to watering.
Less Common Causes:
While less frequent, other factors can also contribute to watery eyes:
- Inflammation: Any inflammation of the eye surface (e.g., from injury or a foreign body) will stimulate tear production.
- Certain Medications: Some medications can have watery eyes as a side effect.
When to See a Doctor:
Persistent or severe watery eyes, accompanied by pain, vision changes, or other symptoms, warrant a visit to an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
