Best Ways to Treat Watery Eyes

What Are the Symptoms of Watery Eyes?

The primary symptom of watery eyes is obvious—excessive tearing. But other symptoms often accompany this condition, such as:

• Blurry vision 

• Discharge  

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

• Discomfort/irritation 

• Light sensitivity 

Causes of Watery Eyes and Excessive Tearing

There are many potential reasons for watery eyes. These can be caused by external factors, underlying health conditions, or certain habits and behaviors.

Your eyes naturally produce three types of tears: basal (for lubrication), reflex (in response to irritants), and emotional tears. Basal tears are produced steadily to keep the surface of your eyes moist, while reflex tears are produced quickly in response to irritants, such as smoke or onions. When your eyes water excessively, it means your body is producing an increased amount of basal or reflex tears.

Several common environmental factors can trigger watery eyes, including cold weather, wind, and smoke. These factors can worsen dry eyes or contribute to blocked tear ducts. Tear production and drainage is a delicate process, and if something disrupts this balance—such as dryness or irritation—it can affect either tear production or drainage.

The most common issues are either excessive tear production or poor drainage. One major cause of poor drainage is a blocked tear duct. Tear ducts are small channels 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 your eyes, leading to excessive watering. Blocked tear ducts can result from factors like narrow ducts, chronic inflammation (such as uveitis), swelling, eye infections, glaucoma, or prior surgeries (e.g., eye, sinus, or cancer treatments like radiation or chemotherapy). Even makeup can cause irritation, styes, or infections, all of which can contribute to watery eyes.

Who Is Most Likely to Experience Watery Eyes?

Watery eyes can affect people of all ages, with both newborns and older adults being more prone to this condition. In older individuals, eyelid problems such as malposition can be a contributing factor. Conditions like entropion (where the eyelid turns inward) and ectropion (where the lower eyelid turns outward) can lead to excessive tearing. Fortunately, these conditions can usually be treated with surgery.

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

Recommended Treatments for Watery Eyes

Since watery eyes can stem from a variety of causes, treatment will vary depending on the underlying issue. Your Grene Vision Group doctor may recommend monitoring the condition to see if it improves on its own. There are also several 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 be an effective way to lubricate the eyes and relieve irritation caused by conditions like dry eye syndrome (DES). These drops are available at most pharmacies, but it’s essential to choose the right type. If you use them frequently, opt for preservative-free, single-use drops to prevent irritation. If your symptoms persist, your Grene Vision Group doctor may prescribe stronger eye drops for more effective relief.

Allergy Medicines

For watery eyes caused by allergies to things like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, addressing the allergic reaction directly can provide relief. Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines are effective at reducing allergy-induced tearing. For more severe flare-ups, your doctor may suggest a short course of corticosteroid eye drops to calm inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Use a Humidifier in the Winter

Dry winter air can cause the moisture in your eyes to evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation and dryness. A cool mist humidifier can help keep the air in your home at a comfortable humidity level, reducing tear evaporation and preventing watery eyes caused by excessive dryness. Aim for a relative humidity level of 40-50%, and make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

Warm Compresses

Applying warmth to your eyelids can help loosen the oils in the meibomian glands, resulting in better tear film stability and reducing reflex tearing. A warm compress can assist with several causes of watery eyes, such as dry eye syndrome, blocked tear ducts, and styes. You can either purchase a special eye compress or make your own by soaking a washcloth in warm (not hot) water and applying it to your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. If your eyelids are red or infected, skip the compress and contact your eye doctor. Always wash your hands before and after using the compress to avoid causing further irritation. 

When Should You See a Doctor for Watery Eyes?

If you experience sudden vision changes, discomfort around your eyes, or a sensation of something being stuck in your eye, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may be signs of a more serious underlying condition, such as an eye injury or infection. An eye care professional will assess the cause of your watery eyes and, if necessary, prescribe treatments like oral antibiotics or medicated eye drops to address the issue.