Watering eyes
Watering eyes, epiphora, or tearing is a state where there is an overflow of tears with no explanation. Usually, watery eyes get better on their own but consult a doctor if it affects your regular activities.
Watering eyes causes
- Overproduction of tears
- When tears unable to drain through the nasolacrimal system
- Infection or allergy
- Eyelid issues
- Dry eye syndrome
- Bell’s palsy infection
- Specific medications and cancer treatments
But it’s normal for eyes or eye to water in smoky environments, while outside in wind or cold, during eye injury, or when something is in your eye.
Infants often have watery eyes since they have small tear ducts, which will get better when they turn a year old.
Watering eyes treatments
Treatments for watery eyes depend on the cause behind them. For example, if:
- Dry eyes need eyedrops
- Eye infection needs antibiotic
- Allergy needs medicines
- Piece of grit? needs to be removed
- Problem with eyelids or blocked tear ducts? needs a small operation
If the cause is unable to find, a doctor may refer you to an ophthalmologist (an eye specialist).
Consult a doctor if
- Watery eyes stop you from regular activities
- Eyelid turning inward or drooping away
- Swelling or lumps around eyes
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022