Important things you need to know about watery eyes

Our eyes are extremely delicate. Even the slightest of irritations can cause extreme discomfort and hinder our day to day chores. Since our eyes are extremely sensitive, it is not wise to avoid any eye issues that arise. One such common issue is the problem of watery eyes, which can be caused due to many different reasons. While watery eyes from allergies are the most common reason, there are plenty of other things you should know about this condition.

Why do eyes become watery?

• Allergic conjunctivitis and normal conjunctivitis are two of the most popular reasons for eyes to become watery.
• One of the symptoms of a common cold is watery eyes.
• Issues with the cornea, such as abrasions, may cause watery eyes.
• Scleritis is a complicated condition that causes watery eyes.
• Allergic rhinitis and getting an internal eyelid sty can also cause watery eyes.
• Stressing the eye too much with the usage of electronics may also cause watery eyes.
• Some other common causes of watery eyes are getting chalazion, cluster headaches, and even reactive arthritis.

When are watery eyes abnormal?

• Watery eyes are abnormal when they are accompanied by an abnormal rate of tearing.
• The eyes produce tears, which are responsible for keeping eyes healthy and moist.
• These tears are produced by tiny glands, which are situated right above the eye.
• The tears are created and then drained into the nasal cavity, with the help of small tubes known as ducts.
• However, when these ducts get blocked, it causes high amounts of water to be discharged from our eyes causing inflammation and infections.
• This blockage can occur in the tear duct in the eyelid, the tear duct on the edge of the eyelid, and even the tear duct in the nose, in which case watery eyes are a cause for worry.

What are the symptoms of the problem pertaining to watery eyes?

• A normal level of watery eyes is important, but if it is accompanied by some other symptoms, then it may indicate an underlying condition, which requires medical intervention.
• If watery eyes also cause reduced vision, then you should consult the doctor.
• Even swollen eyes or pain in the eyes along with water can indicate a problem that requires an ophthalmologist’s attention.
• Along with watery eyes, the twitching and the feeling of something in the eye is also a sign of a problem.
• Persistent redness is also experienced by people who complain of watery eyes.

How is the diagnosis for watery eyes made?

• Watery eyes are also referred to as epiphora and can be diagnosed easily.
• The ophthalmologist will find out the underlying cause by generally looking at the symptoms of the eye.
• Sometimes, the doctor may also examine the eyes while putting you on an anesthetic.
• To find out whether the eyes are blocked or not, a probe may be inserted inside the narrow channels responsible for drainage. This is important to find out about the abnormality of tear duct blockage, so you can start on the treatment right away.

What are the treatment options for watery eyes?

• There are different treatment options for different causes.
• For irritation, the doctor may ask you to wait for a week before prescribing any antibiotics.
• When trichiasis is bothering you, which is an inward-growing eyelash, the doctor will easily be able to remove it from the eyes.
• You may need to undergo a surgery if ectropion is the problem, which is when eyelids are turned outwards.
• Depending upon the blockage in the tear ducts, additional methods may be used, such as a surgery or eye drops that can help unblock the channels.
• A good home remedy is to hold a damp and warm cloth over your eyes to provide some relief.

Even if you are getting watery eyes from allergies, it is important to find out the right cause, so that you can chart out the treatment right away.