What are the common causes of watery eyes. How can excessive tearing be diagnosed and treated. What symptoms typically accompany epiphora. When should you see a doctor for watery eyes.

What is Epiphora and How Does it Affect Vision?

Epiphora, more commonly known as watery eyes, occurs when there is excessive tear production or impaired tear drainage. This condition can significantly impact daily life and visual comfort. While tears are essential for maintaining eye health and comfort, uncontrolled tearing can lead to various issues.

Some key symptoms of epiphora include:

• Constant or intermittent tearing
• Blurred vision
• Redness and irritation
• Eyelid swelling
• Sensitivity to light
• Soreness or sharp pain

Is epiphora always a cause for concern? Not necessarily. Occasional tearing due to environmental factors like wind or dust is normal. However, persistent watery eyes warrant medical attention to identify and address underlying causes.

Common Causes of Excessive Tearing

Watery eyes can stem from various factors affecting tear production or drainage. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

The Meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete an oily substance that helps prevent tear evaporation. When these glands malfunction, it can lead to dry patches on the eyes, triggering reflexive tearing as a compensatory mechanism.

Eyelid Abnormalities

Certain eyelid conditions can interfere with proper tear drainage, including:

• Ectropion: Outward turning of the lower eyelid
• Entropion: Inward rolling of the eyelid
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid edges

Tear Duct Issues

Problems with the tear drainage system can cause tears to accumulate. These may include:

• Blocked tear ducts
• Narrowed tear ducts
• Structural abnormalities in the drainage system

Eye Irritation and Infections

External factors and eye conditions can trigger excessive tearing, such as:

• Chemical irritants or fumes
• Foreign objects in the eye
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Allergies affecting the eyes

Diagnosing the Underlying Cause of Watery Eyes

Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of epiphora. How is this condition typically evaluated?

The diagnostic process often involves:

1. Comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist
2. Review of medical history and symptoms
3. Evaluation of tear production and quality
4. Assessment of eyelid position and function
5. Examination of tear ducts for blockages or abnormalities

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary, such as imaging studies or specialized tear drainage assessments.

Treatment Options for Epiphora

The appropriate treatment for watery eyes depends on the underlying cause. What are some common approaches to managing epiphora?

Conservative Measures

For mild cases or those related to environmental factors, conservative treatments may suffice:

• Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops
• Warm compresses to improve Meibomian gland function
• Eyelid hygiene practices
• Avoiding triggers (e.g., allergens, irritants)

Medications

Depending on the cause, various medications may be prescribed:

• Antibiotic eye drops for bacterial infections
• Antihistamine drops for allergic reactions
• Anti-inflammatory medications for certain eye conditions

Surgical Interventions

In cases where structural issues are present, surgical options may be considered:

• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) for blocked tear ducts
• Eyelid surgery to correct ectropion or entropion
• Punctal plug insertion to manage dry eye-related tearing

When to Seek Medical Attention for Watery Eyes

While occasional tearing is normal, certain situations warrant prompt medical evaluation. When should you consult a healthcare professional for watery eyes?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening tearing
• Accompanying pain or vision changes
• Signs of infection (redness, discharge, fever)
• Swelling or lumps around the eyes
• Tearing that significantly impacts daily activities

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Preventing Epiphora and Maintaining Eye Health

While not all causes of watery eyes are preventable, certain measures can help maintain optimal eye health and reduce the risk of epiphora.

Protective Measures

To minimize eye irritation and potential injuries:

• Wear protective eyewear during activities that may expose eyes to debris or chemicals
• Use appropriate eye protection in windy or dusty environments
• Practice good hand hygiene to prevent eye infections

Lifestyle Habits

Adopting healthy habits can support overall eye health:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E
• Stay hydrated to support tear production
• Take regular breaks during prolonged screen time (20-20-20 rule)
• Avoid rubbing your eyes excessively

Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye check-ups can help detect and address potential issues early. How often should you have your eyes examined?

• Adults aged 20-39: Every 2-4 years
• Adults aged 40-64: Every 2-4 years
• Adults 65 and older: Annually

These guidelines may vary based on individual risk factors and existing eye conditions.

Impact of Watery Eyes on Quality of Life

Epiphora can significantly affect various aspects of daily life. How does this condition impact individuals beyond the physical symptoms?

Visual Function

Excessive tearing can lead to:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Difficulty with tasks requiring visual precision
• Challenges with night driving or reading

Social and Emotional Effects

The visible nature of watery eyes may cause:

• Embarrassment in social situations
• Misinterpretation of emotions (e.g., appearing sad or upset)
• Reduced confidence in professional settings

Practical Challenges

Day-to-day activities can be affected, including:

• Difficulty applying and wearing makeup
• Challenges with contact lens wear
• Frequent need to wipe or dab eyes

Understanding these impacts underscores the importance of proper diagnosis and management of epiphora.

Advancements in Epiphora Treatment and Research

The field of ophthalmology continues to evolve, bringing new insights and treatment options for watery eyes. What recent developments show promise in managing epiphora?

Innovative Diagnostic Tools

Advanced imaging techniques and diagnostic tools are enhancing the accuracy of epiphora diagnosis:

• High-resolution OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) for tear duct imaging
• Fluorescein dye-based digital subtraction dacryocystography
• Tear osmolarity testing for assessing tear film quality

Minimally Invasive Procedures

New surgical approaches aim to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes:

• Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (E-DCR)
• Balloon dacryoplasty for partial nasolacrimal duct obstructions
• Laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy

Emerging Therapies

Ongoing research explores novel treatments for underlying causes of epiphora:

• Gene therapy for congenital lacrimal system disorders
• Stem cell-based approaches for tear gland regeneration
• Nanotechnology-enhanced drug delivery systems for eye conditions

These advancements offer hope for improved management of watery eyes and related conditions in the future.

Epiphora, or watery eyes, is a common condition that can significantly impact visual comfort and quality of life. By understanding its causes, seeking appropriate diagnosis, and exploring available treatment options, individuals can effectively manage this condition. Regular eye care, preventive measures, and staying informed about advancements in ophthalmology contribute to overall eye health and well-being. If you experience persistent watery eyes or related symptoms, consult with an eye care professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Watering eyes | nidirect

Watering eyes happen if too many tears are produced or they can’t drain away properly. It can cause blurred vision, sore eyelids and sticky eyes. See your optician or GP if you have persistent watering eyes or any lumps or swelling around your eyes.

Causes of watering eyes

Watering eyes can affect anyone. It’s most common in young babies and people over 60.

A problem with the glands

Glands in the eyelids (Meibomian glands) normally secrete an oily substance. This substance slows the evaporation of tears between blinks.

When these glands don’t function properly, it can result in dry patches on your eyes.

These become sore and extra tears are produced as a reflex. This is the most likely cause of watering eyes.

Other causes

Other problems that can cause extra tears to be produced include:

• the lower eyelid sagging away from the eye (ectropion) – this makes it difficult for tears to reach the drainage ducts
• eyelids that roll inwards (entropion)
• inflammation of the edges of the eyelids (blepharitis)
• blocked or narrowed tear ducts
• eye irritation (for example, from chemical fumes or grit)
• an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis
• an allergy

Investigating and treating watering eyes

See your optometrist (optician) for a check up if you think your eyes are watering more than normal.

You may be advised to see your GP. Your GP will treat your symptoms, or treat the condition causing your symptoms.

They may refer you to an eye specialist called an ophthalmologist for an examination.

This may be because no obvious reason for your watering eye can be found, or because your symptoms are difficult to treat.

Investigating the cause

If you are referred, an ophthalmologist, they may carry out tests to look for blockages in your tear ducts.

A pharmacist may be able to help 

A pharmacist may be able to tell you:

• what you can do to treat it yourself – such as cleaning and protecting your eyes
• if you can buy anything to help – such as cleaning solutions, eye drops or allergy medicines
• if you need to see an optician or GP

Treatment

If you’re producing extra tears as a result of dry eye syndrome, you may be offered lubricating eye drops. You may also be advised to avoid activities that make your symptoms worst.

Your GP or consultant ophthalmologist will advise if medication may be needed. This is if the cause is an allergy or infection. Surgery may be needed if a tear duct is blocked.

If the symptoms aren’t interfering with your life, you may choose not to have treatment for your watering eyes.

• Find out more about watering eyes on the NHS website

More useful links

• How to use your health services

This page was reviewed January 2019

Help improve this page – send your feedback

Epiphora (Watering Eyes): Causes and Treatment

Epiphora (Watering Eyes): Causes and Treatment

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Medically reviewed by Noreen Iftikhar, MD — By Noreen Iftikhar, MD — Updated on July 26, 2018

Overview

Tears help your eyes stay healthy and comfortable. However, uncontrolled tearing or watery eyes can impact your well-being and daily life.

Epiphora — more commonly referred to as watery eyes — is when you have excessive tear production. This can happen for a number of reasons. Your doctor can diagnose the cause, but let’s take a closer look at some of the possibilities.

Epiphora can cause your eyes to water slightly, or excessively with a constant stream of tears. You may also experience other symptoms in your eyes, such as:

• redness
• enlarged, visible blood vessels
• soreness
• sharp pain
• eyelid swelling
• blurred vision
• light sensitivity

Foreign objects and injury

When you get something in your eye, the resulting irritation can trigger sudden blinking and watering to flush it out. A speck of dust, dirt, or other material may cause an abrasion or scratch. A dirty or torn contact lens can also scratch or injure the eye, leading to epiphora. You may also feel grittiness, pain, or discomfort in your eye.

Allergies

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is a common cause of epiphora. This happens when your body reacts to harmless substances such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Your immune system makes antibodies to these allergens, triggering an inflammatory response that causes red, swollen, and watery eyes.

Infection and inflammation

Infections and inflammation of the eyes and eyelids can cause epiphora.

• Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is a common condition. It’s typically caused by a bacterial or viral infection in one or both eyes. As its name suggests, this condition causes inflamed blood vessels in the eye, giving it a pink or red look.
• The cornea, the clear lens of your eye, can become inflamed. This condition is called keratitis. Symptoms include pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and excess tearing and white discharge.
• An infection or inflammation in the lacrimal or tear glands can cause swelling and excess tearing.
• An ingrown eyelash can become infected causing painful swelling and watery eyes.
• A stye looks like a pimple or boil along the lash line. This painful red bump is usually caused by a bacterial infection of oil glands in the eyelid. Similarly, a chalazion is a smaller bump along the edge or underside of the eyelid that is not painful.
• Blepharitis is a red, inflamed swelling of the eyelids. This condition happens when the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become clogged.
• Trachoma is a serious bacterial infection of the eye. This contagious condition is the leading cause of blindness in the world. Symptoms include itching, swollen eyelids, pus, and epiphora.

Tear duct obstruction

The nasolacrimal ducts are the tear ducts at the inside corner of each eye. They drain away tears to prevent the buildup of water in the eyes. These ducts can become blocked or narrowed, causing severe epiphora. This can affect one or both eyes. This condition affects babies, children, and adults.

The ducts can become blocked due to swelling, inflammation, and infection. Symptoms include eye swelling, redness, and tears that flow down the face.

Some types of obstructions are genetic. Punctal stenosis is a condition where the opening of the eye duct is narrowed or blocked.

Eyelid changes

Blinking your eyelids helps to evenly sweep tears on your eyes. Any changes in the structure and function of the eyelids can cause epiphora.

This may happen naturally or due to injury. Thinned and wrinkled eyelids in older adults can accumulate tears, causing redness and chronic watering.

An ectropic eyelid pulls away from the eyeball. This prevents tears from draining properly. An entropion eyelid is turned inwards. This can cause pressure, scraping, and discomfort in the eye, triggering epiphora.

Other causes

A number of other conditions can cause epiphora, including:

• dry eyes
• cold and flu
• sun and wind
• excess use of digital devices
• injury to the face
• injury to the nose
• sinus infection

Some medications may also cause epiphora:

• topical blood pressure drugs
• chemotherapy drugs (taxane)
• epinephrine
• eye drops (echothiophate iodide and pilocarpine)
• steroids

Your doctor or eye specialist will examine your eyes and both upper and lower eyelids to find the cause of the epiphora. A scope lets your doctor see the blood vessels behind your eye and check eye pressure. Your nose passages and sinus cavities may also be examined. Your doctor will look at your symptoms and medical history.

If you have any discharge or pus from your eye, it may be tested to find out if you have a bacterial or viral infection.

Another test checks the chemical makeup of your tears. One clinical study found that people with epiphora had a lower number of particles in their tears.

Watery eyes are common at any age. This condition is not always a cause for concern. Epiphora due to allergies, a cold, or an eyelid stye usually resolves on its own.

However, epiphora can also be a symptom of a serious infection. See your doctor urgently if you have epiphora along with pain, changes in vision, or a gritty sensation in your eyes.

Wash your hands regularly. Avoid touching your face to prevent spreading germs to your eyes.

If you wear contact lenses, you may be at higher risk of eye infections that lead to epiphora. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly before placing or removing lenses. Clean lenses daily. Replace old or expired contact lenses.

Protect your eyes and sight and help prevent epiphora with small, consistent changes. Wear sun protection when you’re outside. Reduce eye strain by wearing protective glasses and limiting your time looking at screens. Make complete eye exams a part of your regular health checkups.

Last medically reviewed on July 26, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Ali MJ, et al. (2014). Simple vs complex congenital nasolacrimal duct obstructions. DOI:
  10.1002/alr.21435
• Bernardino RC. (2015). Evaluating epiphora.
  reviewofophthalmology. com/article/evaluating-epiphora-nothing-to-cry-about
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Watery eyes.
  mayoclinic.org/symptoms/watery-eyes/basics/causes/sym-20050821
• Saleh G, et al. (2014). Tear film osmolarity in epiphora. DOI:
  10.1097/IOP.0b013e31825e6960
• Shin JH, et al. (2015). Impact of epiphora on vision-related quality of life. DOI: 10.1186/1471-2415-15-6
  
• Soiberman U, et al. (2012). Punctal stenosis: Definition, diagnosis, and treatment. DOI: 10.2147/OPTH.S31904
  
• Williams B, et al. (2014). Patterns and causes of epiphora referrals to a tertiary oculoplastic practice. DOI:
  10.1016/j.jcjo.2013.12.003
• Ziahosseini K, et al. (2015). Botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of epiphora in lacrimal outflow obstruction. DOI: 10.1038/eye.2015.18
  

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Medically reviewed by Noreen Iftikhar, MD — By Noreen Iftikhar, MD — Updated on July 26, 2018

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Why is there mucus in the eyes. How to treat eye discharge in a child.

From Aimee Rodrigues; reviewed by Pamela Miller, OD, FAAO, JD, FNAP

Eye discharge is a combination of mucus, fat, skin cells, and other particles that accumulate in the corners of the eyes during sleep.” They may be moist and sticky or dry, depending on

Mucous secretions have a protective function, flushing waste products and potentially dangerous particles from the tear film and the anterior surface of the eye.0003

Throughout the day, the eyes secrete mucus, but the ever-present tear film bathes your eyes with every blink, removing the secretions before they can harden.

When you sleep and do not blink, the discharge accumulates and dries up in the corners of the eyes, and sometimes along the lash line. accompanied by blurry vision, sensitivity to light or eye pain may indicate a serious eye infection or eye disease. Therefore, you should immediately contact an optometrist.

FIND AN OCULIST OR OPTICS SHOP NEAR YOU : Whether you need an eye exam or are ready to buy eyeglasses or contact lenses, our locator will help you find a safe place nearby.

Where does eye discharge come from?

The discharge from the eyes consists mainly of a watery mucous secretion (mucin) produced by the conjunctiva and the secretion of the meibomian glands, an oily substance that helps to moisten the eyes between blinks.

Those impurities that are not washed away by tears accumulate in the inner corners of the eye and along the lash line. “”

Causes of discharge from the eyes the consistency, color, or amount of discharge, this may indicate an infection or eye disease.

Common eye conditions with abnormal eye discharge include:

Conjunctivitis. Discharge from the eyes is a common symptom Conjunctivitis Inflammation of the thin membrane that lines the “alkaline” of the eye (the sclera) and the inner surface of the eyelids.

In addition to itching, stinging, irritation and redness of the eyes , conjunctivitis is usually accompanied by white, yellow or green mucus that may form a crust along the eyelash line during sleep. In some cases, the crust formed on the eyelid can be so dense that it does not allow you to open your eyes.

There are three types of conjunctivitis:

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is caused by the common cold or herpes simplex virus. Eye discharge from viral conjunctivitis is usually clear and watery, and may include white or yellowish mucus.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis, as the name suggests, is caused by a bacterial infection. If not promptly treated, it can pose a threat to vision. Eye discharge from bacterial conjunctivitis is usually thicker and purulent (like pus) than from viral conjunctivitis, and is usually yellow, green, or even gray in color. In the morning after sleep, patients often cannot open their eyelids, which are completely stuck together with secretions.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is triggered by allergens – pollen, dandruff, dust and other common irritants that cause eye allergies . It can also be caused by an allergic reaction to chemical pollutants, cosmetics, contact lens solutions, and eye drops. In allergic conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eyes is usually watery. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and always affects both eyes.

Other eye infections

In addition to conjunctivitis, there are many eye infections that cause abnormal eye discharge. For example:

• Ocular herpes (recurrent viral eye infection)

• Fungal keratitis (a rare but serious inflammation of the cornea)

• Acanthamoeba keratitis (potentially blindness a parasitic infection usually caused by poor contact lens hygiene or swimming while wearing contact lenses).

The discharge from an eye infection varies considerably – it can be clear and watery or thick, green and sticky, so you should see an eye doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

Blepharitis

A chronic disease of the eyelids, blepharitis, is either an inflammation of the eyelash hair follicles or an abnormal secretion of the meibomian glands at the inner edge of the eyelids.

Meibomian gland dysfunction

Also called MGD, this sebaceous gland disorder in the eyelid can cause foamy discharge from the eyes, sticky eyelids, yellow or green pus, and irritation and pain.

Barley

Barley is a blockage of the meibomian gland at the base of the eyelid, usually caused by an infected eyelash follicle. Also called hordeolum, it resembles a pimple at the edge of the eyelid and is usually accompanied by redness, swelling of the eyelids, and tenderness at the site of the lesion. Yellow pus, sticking of the eyelids, and discomfort when blinking may also occur.

SM. ALSO: How to get rid of stye

The tear duct system provides moisture and protection to the eyes.

Dry eye

Insufficient tear production or meibomian gland dysfunction can lead to dry eye syndrome , a frequently chronic condition in which the surface of the eye is not properly lubricated, becoming irritated and inflamed. Symptoms include reddened, bloodshot eyes, a burning sensation, blurred vision, and a foreign body sensation in the eye. “” Sometimes dry eyes can also cause very heavy watering.

Contact lenses

When wearing contact lenses, there may be more discharge from the eyes than usual. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including eye infection from contact lens wear, contact lens discomfort resulting in dry and irritated eyes, and contact lens wearers rubbing their eyes more frequently. If you notice more discharge due to contact lenses, remove your lenses and see an optometrist to rule out a potentially serious eye disease.

Eye injury

A foreign body in the eye (such as dirt, particles or a chemical) or eye injury may cause watery discharge as a natural defense reaction. If after an eye injury you notice pus or blood in the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage), contact your optometrist immediately for treatment. All eye injuries should be treated as an emergency.

Corneal ulcer

A corneal ulcer is a vision-threatening abscess-like infection of the cornea, usually caused by trauma to the eye or an advanced eye infection. If left untreated, corneal ulcers can lead to permanent vision loss. Corneal ulcers are characterized by pain, redness, swelling of the eyelids, and thick discharge from the eyes. The discharge of pus can be so strong that it causes clouding of the cornea and blurred vision.

Dacryocystitis

When the tear duct is blocked, inflammation and infection of the lacrimal sac in the drainage system of the lacrimal apparatus can occur, resulting in a painful and swollen bump under the inner eyelid. In addition to pain and redness, common symptoms of dacryocystitis include watery eyes, sticky discharge from the eyes, and blurry vision.

Treatment of eye discharge

A small amount of eye discharge is harmless, but if you notice changes in color, frequency, consistency and amount, contact your optometrist.

If mucus in the eyes is due to an eye infection, the optometrist may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral eye drops and ointments. If an eye allergy is causing watery eyes and irritation, over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops and decongestants may help relieve symptoms.

Warm compresses help soothe itching and general discomfort, and remove discharge from the eyes.

For sticky eyelids, soak a tea towel in warm water and place it over your eyes for a few minutes, then gently wipe the discharge. ”

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Normally, in an adult, the mucous membrane produces a mucous film that covers the eye and performs a protective function. And a small amount of whitish mucus in the morning (after sleep) should not cause concern and fear. But with infectious lesions, the picture changes: the discharge becomes more abundant, they can change color and become yellow, the eyes turn red and fester. In this case, it is necessary to identify the cause of purulent discharge and be sure to consult a doctor.

Diseases that cause purulent discharge from the eyes:

• Conjunctivitis. Eye inflammation can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or be allergic in nature. Discharge from the eyes can be very profuse. In bacterial conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eyes can be very thick, yellow-green in color, and cause the eyes to stick very tightly. With allergic inflammation – discharge from the eyes is more watery, yellowish in color.
• In addition to conjunctivitis, there may be other conditions in the eye that cause purulent discharge from the eyes. These include ocular herpes, fungal keratitis
• Corneal ulcer also causes active suppuration from the eyes. It is usually the result of an untreated eye injury and can lead to complete loss of vision.
• Dacryocystitis (inflammation of the lacrimal sac) causes swelling and redness of the inner corner of the eye. When pressing on the area of ​​the lacrimal sac, abundant yellow discharge appears.
• With blepharitis (acute or chronic inflammation of the eyelids), there is swelling and itching of the eyelids, the eyes fester – usually in the morning. Discharge from the eyes is frothy, yellow-green in color.
• Barley or chalazion. May be accompanied by profuse purulent discharge. In this case, the affected eyelid is swollen, red.
• Dry eye syndrome. Dry eye symptoms include eye redness, burning sensation, blurry vision, and foreign body sensation. Very often, people with dry eye syndrome complain that their eyes fester in the morning, after sleep, but this is not pus, but accumulated mucous secretions.

A small amount of mucous discharge from the eyes is harmless.