Eye Doctor Recommendations for Watery Eyes

What Are the Symptoms of Watery Eyes?

The most obvious symptom of watery eyes is, of course, excessive tearing. However, other symptoms often accompany this condition, such as:

• Blurry vision 

• Discharge  

• Eyelid issues (such as irritation or looseness from constant wiping of tears)  

• Discomfort/irritation 

• Light sensitivity 

Causes of Watery Eyes and Excessive Tearing

There are several reasons why your eyes may water excessively. These causes can be due to external factors, underlying health conditions, or lifestyle habits.

Your eyes naturally produce three types of tears: basal (for lubrication), reflex (in response to irritants), and emotional tears. Basal tears are produced steadily to keep the surface of your eyes moist, while reflex tears are produced quickly in response to irritants like smoke or onions. When your eyes begin watering excessively, it means your body is producing an excess of either basal or reflex tears.

Environmental factors such as cold weather, wind, and smoke can all trigger watery eyes. These elements can aggravate dry eyes or contribute to blocked tear ducts. Tear production and drainage is a sensitive process, and if anything disrupts this balance—like dryness or irritation—it can affect either tear production or drainage.

The most common issues are excessive tear production or poor drainage. One of the major causes of poor drainage is a blocked tear duct. Tear ducts are small channels near the inner corners of your eyes that drain tears into your nose. When these ducts become clogged, tears can't drain properly, causing them to accumulate in the eyes, resulting in excessive watering. Blocked tear ducts can be caused by factors like narrow ducts, chronic inflammation (such as uveitis), swelling, eye infections, glaucoma, or previous surgeries (like eye, sinus, or cancer treatments, including radiation or chemotherapy). Even makeup can cause irritation, styes, or infections, contributing to watery eyes.

Who Is Most Likely to Experience Watery Eyes?

Watery eyes can affect individuals of all ages, with both infants and older adults being more prone to this condition. In older adults, eyelid issues such as malposition can be a contributing factor. Conditions like entropion (where the eyelid turns inward) and ectropion (where the lower eyelid turns outward) can lead to excessive tearing. Fortunately, these conditions can usually be treated effectively with surgery.

In newborns, a common cause of watery eyes is nasolacrimal duct obstruction (also known as dacryostenosis). This condition affects about 6% to 20% of infants and typically resolves on its own as the tear ducts mature. In some cases, minimal treatments like gentle massage, eye drops, or topical antibiotics can be helpful. By the time most babies reach their first birthday, around 90% of these cases resolve without the need for additional intervention.

Recommended Treatments for Watery Eyes

Since watery eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Your doctor at The EyeDoctors Optometrists may recommend monitoring your condition to see if it resolves on its own. There are also several at-home remedies that can help manage the symptoms of excessive tearing. 

Over-the-Counter Eye Drops and Artificial Tears

Over-the-counter eye drops are often effective at lubricating the eyes and alleviating irritation caused by various conditions, including dry eye syndrome (DES). These drops are available at most pharmacies, but it’s important to choose the right type. If you use them frequently, opt for preservative-free, single-use drops to avoid irritation from preservatives. If your symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend prescription-strength eye drops for better relief.

Allergy Medicines

If allergies (such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites) are causing your watery eyes, addressing the allergic reaction directly can provide relief. Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines are effective for managing allergy-induced tearing. In cases of severe flare-ups, your eye doctor may prescribe a short course of corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.

Use a Humidifier in the Winter

Dry air in winter can cause tears to evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation and dryness. A cool mist humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, reducing tear evaporation and preventing watery eyes caused by dryness. Aim to keep the relative humidity between 40-50%, and make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid mold and bacteria buildup.

Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress to your eyelids can help loosen the oils in the meibomian glands, leading to more stable tear film and less reflex tearing. A warm compress can assist with several causes of watery eyes, including dry eye syndrome, blocked tear ducts, and styes. You can either purchase a special eye compress or make your own by soaking a washcloth in warm (not hot) water and applying it to your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. If your eyelids are red or infected, skip the compress and contact your eye doctor. Always wash your hands before and after using the compress to prevent further irritation. 

When Should You See a Doctor for Watery Eyes?

If you notice sudden changes in your vision, experience discomfort around your eyes, or feel like something is lodged in your eye, it's important to consult with a doctor right away. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue, such as an eye injury or infection. An eye care professional will evaluate the cause of your watery eyes and, if necessary, may prescribe treatments like oral antibiotics or medicated eye drops to help resolve the problem.