Also known as epiphora, watery eyes are a common eye concern that can affect adults of all ages. As the name suggests, this condition causes tears to build up and spill over the eyelids. Not only can watery eyes cause discomfort and blurred vision, but they can also make it harder to see clearly.
Since watery eyes can become a persistent problem, knowing how these problems affect the eyes is vital. Not to mention, prolonged watering may point to an underlying issue that needs proper diagnosis and treatment.
By understanding the common causes of watery eyes and how they can be treated, you can take the right steps to care for your eyes.
5 Common Causes of Watery Eyes in Adults
Watery eyes can have different causes. Some are linked to irritation, while others affect how tears drain from the eyes.
Here are five common causes of watery eyes in adults.
Dry Eyes
One of the most common causes of watery eyes, dry eyes can occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can leave the eye surface dry and irritated, which may cause the tear glands to produce more tears. These extra tears can then spill over the eyelids.
Dry eyes can happen due to long periods of screen use, wind, smoke, air conditioning, and age-related changes. Some medicines and eye conditions can also contribute to dry eyes.
Although it may seem unusual, watery eyes can be a sign that the eyes are not staying moist enough.
Blocked Tear Ducts
Tear ducts help drain tears from the surface of the eye into the nose. If a tear duct becomes blocked or narrowed, tears cannot drain as they should. They may build up in the eye and run down the cheek.
Blocked tear ducts can happen due to age-related changes, swelling, infection, injury, or other changes in the tear drainage system. Some people may have watering in one eye, while others may have it in both eyes.
If the blockage is left untreated, it can become more severe and may increase the risk of infection around the tear duct. Persistent blockage can also lead to ongoing watering and discomfort.
Eye Allergies
Allergies can irritate the surface of the eyes and cause excess tearing. Pollen, dust, pet hair, and other allergens may trigger this response.
Watery eyes caused by allergies are often linked with itching, redness, and a burning feeling. The symptoms may become worse when you come into contact with the substance that causes the allergy.
Avoiding known triggers and treating the allergy can help reduce eye watering.
Eye Infections
Eye infections can also cause watery eyes. Conjunctivitis is one common example. It can cause inflammation of the thin layer covering the front of the eye and inner eyelids.
Along with watering, an eye infection may cause redness, soreness, irritation, or discharge. The type of treatment depends on what is causing the infection.
If watering is linked to signs of an eye infection, getting the cause checked can help guide the right care.
Eyelid Problems
The eyelids help spread tears across the surface of the eye and move them towards the tear ducts. Changes in the position of the eyelids can affect this process.
For example, an eyelid may turn inward or outward. This can change how tears spread across the eye or how they reach the tear ducts. As a result, tears may not drain properly and can spill over onto the face.
Age-related changes can make some eyelid problems more common in adults. Treatment can help improve eyelid position and tear drainage when needed.
How to Treat Watery Eyes in Adults
While watery eyes can be difficult to manage, it is still possible to get rid of persistent watering with the right treatment. By taking the right steps to address the cause, you can help reduce watering and keep your eyes more comfortable.
Here are five ways to treat watery eyes in adults.
Treating Blocked Tear Ducts
Since a blocked tear duct can stop tears from draining properly, treating the blockage can help improve tear flow and reduce watering. Treatment may depend on the cause and severity of the blockage.
Some cases may improve with simple care, while a persistent blockage may need a procedure to help restore normal tear drainage.
Eye Drops
Apart from treating blocked tear ducts, using suitable eye drops can also help reduce watery eyes. Lubricating eye drops add moisture to the eye surface and can help ease dryness that triggers watering.
The right eye drops can also help when watery eyes are linked to allergies or another eye condition. The type of eye drop used will depend on the cause of the watering.
Treating Allergies or Infections
When allergies cause watery eyes, treatment can focus on reducing the allergic response and avoiding known triggers. This can help reduce irritation and excess tearing.
If an infection is causing the watering, treatment depends on the type of infection. Treating the infection can help the eyes return to normal and reduce watering.
Treating Eyelid Problems
If an eyelid turns inward or outward, it can affect how tears spread or drain and may lead to watery eyes. Treating the eyelid problem can help restore normal tear flow and reduce ongoing watering.
The right treatment depends on the type and severity of the eyelid change. Some cases may need medication or other care, while more severe problems may require a procedure to correct the eyelid position.
Removing Eye Irritants
Dust, an eyelash, or another small object can irritate the eye and cause extra tears. Removing the irritant may allow the watering to settle.
It is important not to rub the eye, as this can cause more irritation. If something remains stuck in the eye or the watering does not settle, an eye check may be needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are watery eyes a sign of an eye problem?
Watery eyes are not always a sign of a serious eye problem. Temporary irritation, wind, or other mild triggers can cause short-term watering. However, ongoing or excessive watering may point to dry eyes, blocked tear ducts, allergies, infections, or eyelid problems.
Can blocked tear ducts cause watery eyes?
Yes. A blocked or narrowed tear duct can prevent tears from draining properly. When tears cannot flow into the nose as they should, they can collect in the eye and spill over onto the cheek.
Can watery eyes go away on their own?
Watery eyes caused by temporary irritation may settle once the trigger is gone. For example, watering caused by dust or wind may stop after the irritation clears. Persistent watering may need an eye check to find and treat the cause.
When do watery eyes need treatment?
Watery eyes may need treatment when the watering continues, keeps returning, or affects daily activities. Treatment may also be needed when watering is linked to an underlying problem such as a blocked tear duct, dry eyes, infection, or eyelid change.
Conclusion
Watery eyes in adults can have several causes, from dry eyes and allergies to blocked tear ducts and eyelid problems. While some cases may settle on their own, ongoing watering can be a sign of a problem that needs treatment.
By finding the cause of watery eyes, you can get suitable care and reduce ongoing discomfort or watering. Are you experiencing persistent watery eyes or concerned about the cause? The SEE Clinic provides specialist eye care to assess watery eyes, identify the cause, and provide suitable treatment.
