How to Stop and Treat Watery Eyes

The Symptoms of Watery Eyes

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

• Blurry vision 

• Discharge  

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

• Discomfort/irritation 

• Light sensitivity 

What Can Cause Watery Eyes?

There are several reasons your eyes may water. These causes can range from environmental factors to underlying health conditions or lifestyle habits.

Your eyes naturally produce three types of tears: basal (lubricating), reflex (triggered by irritants), and emotional tears. Basal tears are produced consistently to keep the eyes moist, while reflex tears are produced in response to irritants like smoke or onions. When your eyes water excessively, it usually means your body is producing more basal or reflex tears than normal.

Common environmental factors that can lead to watery eyes include cold weather, wind, and smoke. These elements can aggravate dry eyes or contribute to blocked tear ducts. Tear production and drainage is a sensitive process that relies on balance. If something disrupts this balance, such as dryness, it can affect either tear production or drainage. Most issues stem from excessive tear production or poor drainage.

One of the main causes of poor drainage is a blocked tear duct. Tear ducts are small channels located 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 ducts can be caused by narrow ducts, chronic inflammation (such as uveitis), swelling, eye infections, glaucoma, or past surgeries, such as those for eye or sinus conditions, or cancer treatments (including radiation or chemotherapy). Even makeup can contribute to irritation, styes, and infections, which can lead to watery eyes.

Who’s Most at Risk of Watery Eyes?

Excessive tearing is a condition that can affect both newborns and older adults. In older individuals, eyelid issues such as malposition can contribute to watery eyes. Conditions like entropion (when the eyelid turns inward) and ectropion (when the lower eyelid turns outward) can cause excessive tearing. Fortunately, these conditions can usually be addressed with surgery.

In newborns, nasolacrimal duct obstruction (also known as dacryostenosis) is a frequent cause of watery eyes. This condition affects about 6% to 20% of babies and typically resolves on its own as the tear ducts mature. Minimal interventions, such as gentle massage, eye drops, or topical antibiotics, may help in some cases. By the time babies reach their first birthday, about 90% of these cases will have resolved.

How Watery Eyes Are Treated

Since watery eyes can be triggered by many different factors, treatment will depend on the specific cause. Your eyecarecenter doctor might recommend monitoring the condition to see if it improves on its own. There are also various home remedies that can help manage the symptoms of excessive tearing.

Over-the-Counter Eye Drops and Artificial Tears

Over-the-counter eye drops can help lubricate the eyes and alleviate irritation caused by various conditions, including dry eye syndrome (DES). These drops are widely available at most pharmacies, but it’s important to choose the right kind. If you use them frequently, opt for preservative-free, single-use drops to avoid worsening irritation. If your symptoms persist, your eyecarecenter doctor may prescribe stronger eye drops for more effective relief. 

Allergy Medicines

For watery eyes caused by allergies to pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, addressing the allergic response directly can offer fast relief. Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines are effective for allergy-induced tearing. In cases of severe flare-ups, your doctor may recommend a short course of corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Use a Humidifier in the Winter

Dry winter air can cause moisture in your eyes to evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness and irritation. A cool mist humidifier can help keep the air at an optimal moisture level, which reduces tear evaporation and prevents watery eyes caused by dryness. Aim for a relative humidity of 40-50%, and be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid mold and bacteria buildup.

Warm Compresses

Applying warmth to your eyelids can help loosen the oils in the meibomian glands, leading to better tear film stability and less reflex tearing. A warm compress can help with various causes of watery eyes, including dry eye syndrome, blocked tear ducts, and styes. You can purchase a special eye compress or create your own by using a washcloth soaked in warm (but not hot) water and applying it to your closed eyelids for five to 10 minutes. If your eyelids are red or infected, skip the compress and consult your eye doctor. Be sure to wash your hands before and after using the compress to avoid further irritation. 

When Should You See a Doctor for Watery Eyes?

If you notice sudden changes in your vision, experience pain around your eyes, or feel like something is lodged in your eye, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor right away. These symptoms may indicate more serious underlying issues, such as an injury or infection. An eye care professional will be able to pinpoint the cause of your watery eyes and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate treatments like oral antibiotics or medicated eye drops.