Eyes Keep Watering Again and Again? These Could Be the Reasons—Know When to See a Doctor

Watery eyes are common and usually nothing to worry about. Dust, smoke, bright light, strong winds or cold air can temporarily irritate the eyes and cause them to produce extra tears. Eye fatigue can also trigger watering, as tears help protect and lubricate the surface of the eye.

However, if your eyes keep watering frequently or continuously without an obvious trigger, there could be an underlying problem. Identifying the cause can help you get the right treatment at the right time.

What can cause frequent watery eyes?

There are several possible reasons why your eyes may water excessively.

Dry eyes

It may sound surprising, but dry eyes can actually cause excessive watering. When the eyes don't have enough moisture, irritation can trigger the tear glands to produce more tears as a protective response.

Allergies

Allergic reactions can irritate the eyes and cause watering, itching, redness and discomfort. Dust, pollen and other allergens may trigger these symptoms.

Eye infections

Certain eye infections can cause excessive tearing along with redness, irritation, swelling or discharge. If these symptoms continue, an eye examination may be necessary.

Sinus problems

Sinus-related inflammation or congestion can sometimes affect the area around the eyes and contribute to excessive tearing.

Eyelid problems

Changes in the position of the eyelids can interfere with how tears spread across or drain from the eye. Eyelashes that rub against the surface of the eye can also cause irritation and watering.

Blocked tear ducts

Normally, tears drain through tiny channels near the inner corners of the eyes. If a tear duct becomes blocked, tears may not drain properly and can overflow onto the face.

Eye injury or certain treatments

Watery eyes can sometimes develop after an eye injury. Certain medicines or medical treatments may also contribute to excessive tearing in some people.

When should you see an eye doctor?

Occasional watery eyes caused by wind, dust or temporary irritation usually settle on their own. However, recurring or persistent watering should be evaluated by an eye specialist, particularly if there is no obvious cause.

Seek medical attention if watery eyes are accompanied by:

• Severe eye pain

• Significant redness or swelling

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Strong sensitivity to light

• Excessive discharge

• Difficulty opening the eye

• Persistent watering following an eye injury

These symptoms may indicate a problem that requires prompt medical evaluation.

Don't use eye drops without advice

If your eyes are repeatedly watering, avoid randomly using medicated eye drops or other eye medicines without professional advice. Different causes require different treatments, and using the wrong product may not solve the underlying problem.

Occasional watering is often the eye's natural response to irritation. But if your eyes are watering regularly or the problem is accompanied by pain, redness or vision changes, getting an eye examination is the safer choice.