Watery Eyes - Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Watery eyes:

It is perfectly natural for eyes to produce too many tears when it gets injured or a piece of grit or eyelash gets into it, also when one is out in the wind or cold or in smoky environments. That said, there are several other reasons why you might have a watery eye, for example blocked tear ducts, allergies or infections and more. It is often seen that babies have watery eyes as their tear ducts are small but it usually improves by the time they turn one year old. There are several over the counter medications available, but remember only a doctor can get to the root cause and help the eye condition from worsening further.

Causes and treatments of watery eyes:-

Conjunctivitis - also called as pinkeye makes the eyes appear red or pink and is accompanied with inflammation and extra tears. It also causes red inner eyelids, mucus or pus and blurry vision. Doctor might suggest medicines and eye drops to ease the problem.

Allergies - Getting exposed to pet dander, pollen, fumes and mites causes the eyes to turn watery, itchy and red. Doctor might suggest allergy shots or prescription-strength medicines.

Dry eyes - are irritating and the immune system responds by producing extra tears. It can also be accompanied with vision problems, redness, stinging and burning sensation. Doctors might prescribe artificial tears in mild cases and prescription drugs to relieve inflammation. Other treatments include a combination of eye massage and light therapy and also making inserts that act like artificial tear glands.

Blocked tear ducts - causes the eyes to be leaky, watery and always infected or irritated. The eye doctor might recommend surgery to create a new drain or might flush the duct with saline and further insert tubes or balloons to clear up the blockages.

The problem with the cornea - can either cause minor scratches or ulcers. Corneas also get inflamed due to keratitis causing the tears to work overtime. Doctors treat keratitis with antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory or antiviral eye drops. If it is worse a corneal transplant is suggested to save eyesight.

Ingrown lashes - they rub against the eyes, causing extra tears. Doctors pull out or suggest surgery to remove it permanently.

Problems with eyelids - it causes the lids to sag or droop resulting in watery and irritated eyes. One might need surgery or artificial tears and ointments.

Bumps on eyelids - may be due to chalazion or stye. Doctor might suggest a steroid shot or antibiotics to treat it.

Symptoms associated with watery eyes:-
Excessive tearing can also be accompanied with following symptoms-

• Redness in eyes
• Eye swelling
• Allergies
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Vision impairment
• Eye pain
• Eye infection or inflammation

Diagnosis and treatment:-
If the unexplained tearing continues for a long period of time,and is red and produces discharge, affects vision, has a foreign body sensation or is accompanied with eye pain make an immediate appointment with your doctor. The eye doctor will examine the eyes, perform tests and will carry out the treatment.