Why Are My Eyes So Watery?

Experiencing watery eyes can be both frustrating and confusing. You might find yourself wiping away tears even when you’re not emotional or exposed to irritants. While it may seem abnormal, watery eyes are actually quite common and can stem from various causes. Understanding the underlying reasons and knowing when to seek professional care can help you maintain optimal eye comfort and health.

Common Causes of Watery Eyes

Several factors may contribute to excessive tearing. Here are three common causes:

1. Allergies

Environmental allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mold, or dust can irritate your eyes and trigger an overproduction of tears. Even if you’ve never experienced allergies before, they can develop or change over time. A new home, workplace, or even visiting a friend with pets may introduce allergens that affect your eyes.

2. Aging

As we age, the quality of our tear film can deteriorate. The tear film may lack essential oils that keep it stable, resulting in dry eye. In response, your eyes may overproduce watery tears to compensate for the dryness, leading to frequent tearing.

3. Blocked Tear Ducts or Eye Conditions

A persistent overflow of tears could indicate a blocked tear duct or other underlying eye conditions. These issues may require medical intervention, particularly if the tearing is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or discomfort.

Treatment and Management Options

The right treatment depends on identifying the root cause of your symptoms:

• For allergies, avoiding the trigger is the first line of defense. Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamine eye drops can help reduce the allergic response. Artificial tears may also provide temporary relief by flushing out allergens and lubricating the eyes.

• For age-related or medical conditions, such as a blocked tear duct or dry eye disease, it’s important to consult with an optometrist. Treatments may include lubricating drops, warm compresses, tear duct flushing, or minor procedures to improve tear drainage.

Proactive Steps to Reduce Watery Eyes

In addition to medical treatment, there are steps you can take to help manage watery eyes:

• Protect your eyes from wind, smoke, and dry air using wraparound sunglasses.

• Use a humidifier in dry environments to maintain healthy moisture levels.

• Maintain good eye hygiene and avoid rubbing your eyes, which can worsen irritation.

• Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and catch any issues early.

Schedule Your Visit Today

If watery eyes are interfering with your daily comfort and quality of life, Advanced Eyecare of Chino Optometry is here to help. Located in Chino, CA, our experienced team is committed to delivering personalized, comprehensive care tailored to your specific eye health needs.

Call us at (909) 627-7518 or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment. Take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision by scheduling your expert eye care visit today.