Definition
Watery eyes (epiphora) tear persistently or excessively.
Depending on the cause, watery eyes may clear up on their own. Self-care measures at home can help treat watery eyes, particularly if the cause is inflammation or dry eyes.
Causes
Watery eyes can be due to many factors and conditions.
In infants, persistent watery eyes, often with some matter, are commonly the result of blocked tear ducts. The tear ducts don’t produce tears, but rather carry away tears, similar to how a storm drain carries away rainwater. Tears normally drain into your nose through tiny openings (puncta) in the inner part of the lids near the nose. In babies, the tear duct may not be fully open and functioning for the first several months of life.
In older adults, persistent watery eyes may occur as the aging skin of the eyelids sags away from the eyeball, allowing tears to accumulate and flow out.
Sometimes, excess tear production may cause watery eyes as well.
Allergies or viral infections (conjunctivitis), as well as any kind of inflammation, may cause watery eyes for a few days or so.
Medication causes
Chemotherapy drugs
Epinephrine
Eyedrops, especially echothiophate iodide and pilocarpine
Common causes
Allergies
Blepharitis (which is eyelid inflammation)
Blocked tear duct
Common cold
Corneal abrasion (scratch): First aid
Corneal ulcer
Dry eyes (caused by decreased production of tears)
Ectropion (a condition in which the eyelid turns outward)
Entropion (a condition in which the eyelid turns inward)
Foreign object in the eye: First aid
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
Ingrown eyelash (trichiasis)
Keratitis (which is inflammation of the cornea)
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Stye (sty) (a red, painful lump near the edge of your eyelid)
Tear duct infection
Trachoma
Other causes
Bell’s palsy
Blow to the eye or other eye injury
Burns
Chemical splash in the eye: First aid
Chronic sinusitis
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Inflammatory diseases
Radiation therapy
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sarcoidosis
Sjogren’s syndrome
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Surgery of the eye or nose
Tumors affecting the tear drainage system
