Tearing: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatments : Your online pharmacy selection

What is lacrimation and why does it occur?

Tearing, or epiphora, is a condition where there is excessive tear production or insufficient evacuation of tears from the eye. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including irritation, allergies, infections (such as conjunctivitis), or problems with the tear ducts. Sometimes, watery eyes are simply caused by environmental changes, such as wind or cold.

What are the main causes of watery eyes?

The causes of watery eyes can be divided into two categories: excessive tear production and evacuation problems. Among the most common reasons are :

1. Allergies: reactions to allergens such as pollen, dust or animal hair.
2. Infections: conjunctivitis, blepharitis, etc.
3. Obstruction of the tear ducts: this may be due to inflammation, infection or congenital anomalies.
4. Environmental factors: exposure to wind, smoke or bright lights.

How is watery eyes diagnosed?

Diagnosis of watery eyes generally involves a thorough assessment of the eye by an ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist may use a variety of techniques, including

• Slit-lamp examination: to observe the external structures of the eye and the tear ducts.
• Schirmer test: measures the quantity of tears produced.
• Dacryocystography: an X-ray examination to visualize the tear ducts.

What treatments are available for watery eyes?

Treatments vary according to the underlying cause of tearing. They may include:

• Medication: antihistamines for allergies, antibiotics for infections.
• Cleansing and care: regular use of warm compresses, eyelid cleansing.
• Surgical interventions: in case of obstruction of the tear ducts, a dacryocystorhinostomy may be necessary.

Prevention and practical advice for managing watery eyes

To minimize the risk of watery eyes, we advise you to :

• Eye protection: use sunglasses when exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
• Hygiene: maintain good eye and eyelid hygiene.
• Medical follow-up: consult an ophthalmologist regularly, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

What are the symptoms associated with watery eyes?

In addition to excessive tear production, tearing can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause:

• Eyeredness
• Burning or stingingsensation
• Blurred vision due to excess tears
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Ocularsecretions, if an infection is present

These symptoms can help identify the specific cause of tearing, and guide the appropriate treatment.

Can the risk of watery eyes be prevented?

Although some causes of tearing cannot be completely avoided, preventive measures can reduce the frequency and severity of episodes:

• Avoid allergens: limit exposure to factors known to trigger allergies.
• Use a humidifier: maintain adequate humidity levels in indoor environments to prevent dry eyes.
• Wear eye protection: when using chemicals or when exposed to potential irritants.

These practices can help maintain eye health and prevent complications associated with tearing.

How does stress affect watery eyes?

Stress can indirectly cause excessive tearing by exacerbating conditions such as allergies or dry eyes. In times of stress, the body releases hormones that can alter the composition of tears, making the eyes more susceptible to irritation. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or soothing activities can help reduce this reaction.

What's the difference between watery eyes and dry eyes?

Although paradoxical, watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eyes. In this case, tearing is a reflex response to irritation caused by dryness of the ocular surface. The tears produced in these conditions are often of poor quality and fail to lubricate the eye effectively. Unlike watery eyes caused by overproduction of tears, dry eyes generally do not resolve the underlying problem without specific treatment.

When should I consult a specialist for watery eyes?

It is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist if :

• Tearing is persistent or worsening
• It is accompanied by pain, redness or reduced vision
• Usual treatments do not provide relief
• There are signs of infection, such as yellow or green secretions

A specialized consultation will enable us to establish a precise diagnosis and propose a treatment adapted to the cause and severity of the watery eyes.