What Causes Excessive Tearing?

Excessive tearing or watery eyes is a condition called epiphora. Our eyes produce tears to lubricate and naturally protect our eyes from debris. Improper drainage can cause severe irritation, blurred vision,

redness, and burning, and can cause more serious long-term issues. Seasonal allergies may also be a cause of excessive tear production.

Other eye conditions can also be responsible for excessive tearing

Some of these include:

Dry Eye

Dry eye might seem contradictory to excessive tearing, but some individuals with chronic dry eye syndrome do have episodes of eye-watering. Dry eyes can be caused by obstruction of the tear glands located in the inner corner of the eye or obstruction of the oil glands located along the lash line. Both substances are necessary to keep your eyes lubricated. If the oil glands are blocked, the eyes will become irritated and dry which could trigger the tear glands to produce excess tears. Most often, people with dry eyes will notice excessive tearing while reading, watching TV, or being exposed to wind.

Eyelid Malposition

Eyelid malposition refers to a variety of conditions such as entropion (eyelids turned in), ectropion (eyelids turned out), and eyelid retraction. The eyelids protect the eyes and when we blink, they help distribute tears evenly across the surface. If the eyelids are improperly positioned or you are unable to fully close your eyes, you might be more at risk of watery eyes.

Styes & Chalazion

Styes and chalazion are eyelid growths that can develop along the lash line and block the oil glands. As discussed with dry eye, blocked oil glands make it difficult for your eyes to properly lubricate themselves and they might overcompensate by producing too many tears. Dr. Ghafouri offers several treatment options for styes and chalazion that target all of their symptoms, including excessive tearing.

Eye Infection

Eye infections such as pink eye (conjunctivitis) or an infection in the tear drainage system could be responsible for watery eyes. Blocked tear ducts can be caused by surface debris, bacteria, an ingrown eyelash, or other foreign bodies leading to eyelid inflammation and excessive tearing among other symptoms.

Would You Benefit from Excessive Tearing Treatment?

Anyone can be affected by watery eyes, but the condition is most common in babies and adults over the age of 50. If you have the following symptoms, we recommend that you schedule an appointment for watery eye treatment:

Tears that build up or run down your face
Eyes that constantly feel wet
Eye pain or itchiness
Cloudy or blurry vision

Treatment Options for Excessive Tearing

Watery eyes can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the specific cause of your condition. Dr. Ghafouri will carefully examine your eyes to look for foreign objects and signs of an infection. Possible treatment options include allergy medications, prescription eye drops or artificial tears to lubricate the eyes, eyelid surgery, or tear duct repair. At your initial consultation, your eyes will be examined and all symptoms will be carefully considered to determine the specific case of your excessive tearing.

Meet Dr. Ali Ghafouri

Dr. Ghafouri MD, FACS, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with specialized training in oculoplastic and orbital surgery. His exclusive specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid and facial surgery sets him apart from other plastic surgeons who practice a larger range of facial and body surgeries. The eyes are a complex and dynamic structure that requires the trained eye of an eyelid surgeon like Dr. Ghafouri to achieve the best possible results. He has performed over 12,000 aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries, each with a personalized approach and commitment to exceptional results.

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9431 E. IRONWOOD SQUARE DR., SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85258

Dr. Ghafouri offers virtual consultations for out-of-town patients. We see patients from all across the country who trust Dr. Ghafouri’s unique skills and expertise for their facial or eyelid surgeries. If you choose to travel to Arizona for your surgery, we can also recommend hotels and other resources to make your stay comfortable.

To schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Ghafouri Click here.

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