Common Culprits Behind Watery Eyes
Watery eyes, medically known as epiphora, can be an irritating and uncomfortable symptom. While crying is the most obvious cause, excessive tearing can also be your body's natural defense mechanism responding to an irritant or an infection. Understanding the potential causes is the first step toward finding relief.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of your eye and inner eyelid. It is a highly common and often contagious cause of watery eyes.
Conjunctivitis can be broken down into three main types:
- Viral Conjunctivitis: This is the most common form, often caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold. It is extremely contagious and typically begins in one eye before spreading to the other. Accompanying symptoms include redness, irritation, and sometimes a clear, watery discharge.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This type is caused by a bacterial infection. While also contagious, it often produces a thicker, yellowish-green discharge that can cause eyelids to stick together, especially upon waking.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander, this is not contagious. It causes intense itching, redness, swelling, and watery eyes.
Viral Infections like the Common Cold and Flu
It is common to experience watery eyes when you have a viral upper respiratory infection like the common cold or flu. This happens for a couple of reasons:
- Nasal Passage Inflammation: The same inflammation that causes your nasal passages to become congested can also affect the tear ducts, which drain tears from your eyes into your nose. When these ducts are blocked, tears back up and cause watering.
- Immune Response: The immune system's response to the virus can also increase tear production. Your body releases histamines to fight the infection, which can lead to swelling and an increase in tears.
Allergies and Hay Fever
For many, watery eyes are a sign of seasonal allergies or hay fever. When allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander enter the eye, the body releases histamines, which causes inflammation and leads to a cascade of symptoms.
Typical symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include:
- Itching and redness in both eyes
- Puffy eyelids
- A runny or stuffy nose and sneezing
- Clear, watery discharge
Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)
The sinuses are air-filled cavities located near your eyes and nasal passages. When these cavities become inflamed and blocked due to a viral or bacterial infection, the resulting pressure can cause pain and watery eyes. This can be mistaken for other illnesses, but a sinus infection is often characterized by specific facial pain and pressure.
Eye Strain and Dry Eye Syndrome
Paradoxically, dry eye syndrome is a leading cause of watery eyes. When your eyes become dry, the body's natural response is to produce a rush of watery, lower-quality tears to compensate. This leads to a cycle of dryness followed by excessive tearing. Eye strain from prolonged computer or screen use can also cause eyes to become fatigued, dry, and irritated, leading to watering.
Other Potential Causes
Less common but still significant causes of watery eyes include:
- Blocked Tear Ducts: The tear drainage system can become blocked, causing tears to build up. This is common in infants and older adults.
- Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by a bacterial infection or a skin condition. It leads to redness, swelling, and crusting on the eyelids, which can cause irritation and watery eyes.
- Corneal Abrasion or Ulcer: A scratch or wound on the cornea can trigger the production of reflex tears to flush out the irritant. This is typically very painful and requires immediate medical attention.
Comparison of Causes for Watery Eyes
| Symptom | Common Cold/Flu | Allergic Conjunctivitis | Bacterial Conjunctivitis | Dry Eye Syndrome | Sinus Infection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden, upon exposure | Sudden | Gradual/Persistent | Gradual |
| Itching | Mild | Severe | Mild | Mild/Gritty | Mild |
| Discharge | Clear & watery | Clear & watery | Thick, yellowish-green | Watery (reflex) | Clear/Nasal |
| Contagious | Yes | No | Yes | No | Sometimes (if viral) |
| Pain Level | Mild (headache) | Mild | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Moderate (pressure) |
| Other Symptoms | Sneezing, cough, fever | Itchy nose, sneezing | Redness, crusting | Redness, blurred vision | Facial pain, congestion |
What to Do When Watery Eyes Occur
Treatment for watery eyes depends on the underlying cause. For common viral infections or allergies, home remedies can provide relief. For more serious or persistent conditions, medical attention is necessary.
- Home Remedies: Applying a warm compress can help with inflammation from blepharitis or clogged tear ducts. For allergies, cool compresses can soothe itching. Over-the-counter antihistamines or eye drops may also help.
- When to See a Doctor: You should seek medical care if your watery eyes are accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, extreme light sensitivity, or thick discharge. A doctor can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include prescription eye drops or oral medication.
For more information on eye conditions and treatment, visit the website for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Conclusion
While watery eyes are a nuisance, they are a powerful clue from your body. Understanding the range of potential causes—from minor irritations to more serious infections—allows you to take appropriate steps toward managing your symptoms and seeking professional help when needed. By paying attention to the full picture of your symptoms, you can identify what sickness starts with watery eyes and get back to feeling your best.
