How to treat and address persistent tearing, Tears are a natural secretion that helps moisturize and cleanse the eyes. It's normal for eyes to water at various times due to sadness, infections, or dust.
However, persistent tearing without a clear cause indicates an underlying health problem that requires treatment. Common causes include eye and eyelid infections, blocked tear ducts, dryness, and sometimes psychological factors.
What are the causes of persistent tearing
There are several causes of persistent tearing, including:
- Blocked tear ducts due to infection, aging, or certain medications.
- Narrowing of the tear duct openings.
- Allergies to irritants such as hay fever or dust.
- Foreign objects in the eye, such as dust or other foreign particles.
- Blocked meibomian glands in the eyelid, which affects eye lubrication.
- Infections and eyelid problems.
Symptoms of Persistent Watery Eyes
Persistent watery eyes may include the following symptoms:
- Redness, itching, and irritation.
- Constant rubbing.
- Swelling of the eyelids due to congestion or inflammation.
- Sensitivity to bright light.
- Blurred vision.
- Mucus discharge accompanying the tears.
- Crustules on the eyelids.
Treatment for Persistent Watery Eyes
Treatment for persistent watery eyes depends on the underlying cause. If dryness and eye allergies are the cause, the treating physician will prescribe lubricating and anti-allergy eye drops. If symptoms do not improve, surgery may be necessary to open the blocked tear duct.
In addition to medication, it is recommended to avoid irritants that worsen the condition and to follow home remedies such as warm compresses, keeping the eyes clean, and avoiding frequent rubbing. Artificial tears may be used in cases of severe dryness.
Medications for Persistent Watery Eyes
- Refresh Tears eye drops.
- Lubristira eye drops. OQ Plus eye drops.
- Cornegel eye drops.
- Optiguard eye drops.
- Blink eye drops.
How is persistent tearing diagnosed
Diagnosis of persistent tearing depends on the underlying cause, which may include dry eyes, allergies, blocked tear ducts, or ingrown eyelashes. The doctor will conduct an examination by:
- Checking for symptoms such as light sensitivity, redness, or pain.
- Examining the eye to rule out infections or eyelid problems such as ectropion (inward turning of the eyelid) or ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid).
- Testing tear drainage by placing a drop of special dye in the eye and measuring the time it takes for the tears to disappear. If most of the dye remains on the surface of the eye, this indicates a blockage.
- Examining the nose to ensure there are no structural problems obstructing the nasal passages and affecting tear drainage.
Ways to prevent persistent tearing
The following are recommended to prevent this condition:
- Keep your eyes clean at all times and avoid exposing them to any pollutants. Avoid exposure to dust and dirt as much as possible.
- Avoid harmful chemicals such as detergents.
- Do not rub your eyes to avoid irritation and constant tearing.
- Keep your hands clean to prevent bacteria from entering your eyes.
- Use warm compresses on your eyes to soothe irritation. Apply warm water compresses or use tea bags to reduce swelling and puffiness.
- Reduce your use of cosmetics as they contain harmful chemicals.
- Make sure to thoroughly remove all makeup from your eyes before going to sleep.
Article Summary
Persistent tearing is a condition where tears continue without apparent cause. It indicates an underlying health problem that requires treatment. Common causes include dry eyes, inflammation, irritation, or blocked tear ducts.
Treatment depends on the cause. A doctor will prescribe lubricating eye drops if dryness is the cause, and anti-allergy eye drops if allergies are the cause, in addition to taking preventative measures whenever possible.