What is Watery Eye (Epiphora)? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Watery eye (epiphora) is a common condition experienced by many individuals, including both children and adults. It occurs when the eyes produce excessive tears, which could be due to various causes, ranging from exposure to wind and smoke to specific eye conditions such as irritation or dryness. There are several types of epiphora, such as tearing caused by irritation or inflammation. This article provides a detailed overview of watery eyes, including their causes, types, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What Exactly is Watery Eye (Epiphora)?

Epiphora refers to excessive tear production by the lacrimal glands located around the eyes. Tears play an essential role in eye health, keeping the eyes moist and protecting them from external factors. However, excessive tearing, or epiphora, can become problematic when tears overflow frequently or continuously.

What are the Causes of Watery Eyes?

Watery eyes can be triggered by numerous factors, from natural conditions to health-related issues. Common causes include:

• Eye allergies: Irritants like dust, wind, pollen, or smoke can cause excessive tear production due to allergic reactions and eye irritation.
• Dry eyes: Ironically, dry eye syndrome can prompt the eye to produce extra tears to compensate for the dryness.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the eye, leading to redness and excessive tearing.
• Blocked tear duct: A blockage in the tear drainage system can cause tears to overflow, resulting in watery eyes.
• Autoimmune disorders: Certain autoimmune conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome—which particularly affects tear and saliva glands—may lead to dry eyes and mouth. In reaction to severe dryness and damage, the body sometimes increases tear production excessively.
• Injury or irritation: Foreign bodies (like insects or particles) or eye injuries can trigger excessive blinking and tearing as a protective response.
• Exposure to bright lights: Bright lighting or direct sunlight exposure can cause the eyes to produce excess tears.
• Prolonged screen time: Extended periods of using digital screens can lead to eye strain and subsequent tearing.
• Colds and congestion: Common colds or sinus infections, especially in winter, can exacerbate tear production due to inflammation around nasal and sinus tissues.

Causes of Watery Eyes in Infants:

Persistent watery eyes in infants typically result from blocked tear ducts, preventing normal drainage. It's advisable to consult a pediatric specialist to rule out other conditions.

Causes of Watery Eyes in Children:

Children often experience watery eyes due to allergies or foreign body exposure. It can also occur with infections or colds, leading to increased tear secretion.

Common Symptoms Associated with Watery Eyes:

Symptoms accompanying epiphora may vary among individuals but often include:

• Excessive tearing: Continuous overflow of tears, sometimes accompanied by mucus.
• Redness: Irritation or inflammation resulting in noticeable eye redness.
• Itching or irritation: A persistent sensation of irritation or itching causing an urge to rub the eyes.
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia): Discomfort or tear production increasing when exposed to bright lighting.
• Swollen eyelids: Eyelid swelling due to inflammation or congestion.

If these symptoms persist, it's essential to consult an ophthalmologist to accurately identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Effective Treatment Options for Watery Eyes:

Treatment primarily depends on the root cause of the condition. Effective methods include:

• Lubricating eye drops (Artificial Tears): Moisturizing drops relieve dryness and irritation, reducing excessive tear production. Regular use, as advised by an eye doctor, is particularly beneficial for chronic dry-eye sufferers.
• Treating blocked tear ducts: Gentle massage around the nasal area or lower eyelid might help unblock tear ducts. More severe cases may require minor surgical intervention.
• Antihistamines for allergies: Oral or ophthalmic antihistamines can alleviate allergic reactions, significantly reducing tearing.
• Avoidance of irritants: Prevent exposure to dust, smoke, strong perfumes, or pollen. Wearing sunglasses outdoors and regular home cleaning minimizes irritation.
• Cold compresses: Applying a cool compress for 10-15 minutes several times daily can help reduce inflammation and relieve tired or irritated eyes.
• Maintain environmental humidity: In colder climates or areas with indoor heating, air dryness contributes to eye discomfort. Using humidifiers increases moisture levels, reducing eye dryness.
• Limiting screen exposure: Frequent breaks from digital devices are advisable. Follow the "20-20-20" rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds—to alleviate digital eye strain.
• Omega-3 supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids improve eye health and oil secretion from tear glands, effectively reducing dryness and tearing. Consult a healthcare professional for proper dosing.
• Medical management for chronic conditions: Chronic eye issues like blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) require medical treatments, possibly antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by an ophthalmologist.
• Herbal remedies: Chamomile and green tea possess soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. Cool herbal tea compresses may alleviate eye irritation and tearing.
• Treating children’s watery eyes: Use pediatric-specific lubricating eye drops after consulting a pediatrician to ensure appropriateness and safety.

How to Prevent Watery Eyes?

To prevent or minimize watery eyes:

• Eye hygiene: Regularly wash hands before touching eyes, and gently clean around eyes with soft, clean cloths.
• Use artificial tears regularly: Frequent use of moisturizing eye drops can prevent dryness and subsequent tearing.
• Avoid environmental irritants: Stay clear from environments containing smoke, heavy fragrances, and dust.
• Apply cold compresses: Routine application of cold compresses can decrease inflammation and reduce watery-eye episodes.
• Manage lighting conditions: Avoid harsh, bright light exposure, use sunglasses outdoors, and manage lighting during screen use.
• Control indoor humidity: Indoor heating often reduces moisture, so using humidifiers can aid in maintaining comfortable eye conditions.
• Ensure proper rest: Adequate sleep and eye rest contribute significantly to eye health.
• Regular check-ups: Persistent watery eyes warrant ophthalmologist evaluation to ensure no underlying issues remain untreated.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek professional medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent watery eyes over extended periods.
• Severe symptoms such as intense redness, pain, or blurred vision.
• Abnormal eye discharge (yellowish or greenish mucus).

FAQs:

Why do eyes water when feeling sleepy?

Eyes may water during tiredness due to dryness or mild irritation.

Does ice help soothe burning eyes?

Yes, ice can alleviate burning sensations by reducing inflammation and discomfort.