What is a watery eye, a tear on the eye?
Watery eyes (epiphora) tear persistently or excessively.
Depending on the cause, watery eyes may clear up on their own.
Self-care measures at home can help treat watery eyes, particularly if caused by inflammation or dry eyes.
Causes
Watery eyes can be due to many factors and conditions.
In infants, persistent watery eyes, often with some matter, are commonly the result of blocked tear ducts. The tear ducts don't produce tears, but rather carry away tears, similar to how a storm drain carries away rainwater.
In older adults, persistent watery eyes may occur as the aging skin of the eyelids sags away from the eyeball, allowing tears to accumulate and flow out.
Sometimes, excess tear production may cause watery eyes as well.
Allergies or viral infections (conjunctivitis), as well as any kind of inflammation, may cause watery eyes for a few days or so.
As we read in the article, it is quite possible that tearing eyes can be a side effect of any medication.
Common causes
- Allergies
- Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
- Blocked tear duct
- Common cold
- Dry eye syndrome;
- Ectropion (outwardly turned eyelid)
- Foreign object in the eye
- Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
- Ingrown eyelash (trichiasis)
- Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
- Sty (a red, painful lump near the edge of your eyelid)
- Tear duct infection
- Trachoma
Other causes
- Facial nerve palsy
- Blow to the eye or other eye injury
- Burns
- Chemical splash in the eye
- Chronic sinusitis
- Inflammatory diseases
- Radiation therapy
- Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory joint disease)
- Sarcoidosis (collections of inflammatory cells in the body)
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Surgery of the eye or nose
- Thyroid disorders
- Tumors affecting the tear drainage system
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you have watery eyes with:
- Reduced vision
- Pain around your eyes
- A foreign body sensation
Watery eyes may clear up on their own. If watery eyes persist, make an appointment with your doctor.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/watery-eyes/basics/definition/sym-20050821
