Epiphora is characterized by excessive watering of the eyes. It can occur due to the blockage of tear ducts or irritation on the surface of the eye. Since epiphora can negatively affect eye health, it should be diagnosed and treated early. Symptoms may include constant tearing, blurred vision, and itching. Epiphora is important for eye health as it is a problem that affects both aesthetics and quality of life.
Why Does Eye Watering Occur?
Eye watering can result from an imbalance in tear production, which naturally keeps the eyes moist.
Common causes of epiphora include:
-
Allergies: Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, and animal dander can cause redness, itching, and watering of the eyes.
-
Eye infections: Conjunctivitis or other infections can increase tear production, leading to epiphora.
-
Tear duct blockage: Blockage of the channels that allow tears to flow can cause tears to overflow from the eyes.
-
Eyelid disorders: Entropion and ectropion can disrupt the balance of tears, leading to increased watering.
-
Dry eye: Paradoxically, dry eye can also reflexively increase tear production and lead to a continuous watering complaint.
-
Watering in one eye: Watering in one eye can be a sign of tear duct blockage or structural abnormalities.
What Are the Symptoms of Eye Watering?
Epiphora is noticeable with constant or intermittent eye watering. Complaints such as burning, stinging, redness, and itching may also accompany it. Common symptoms of epiphora include:
-
Presence of tears in the eyes
-
Sensitivity to light
-
Pain
-
Swelling in the eyelids
-
Redness in the eyes
-
Itching and irritation
-
Blurred vision
What Are the Treatment Methods for Epiphora?
The treatment of epiphora is carried out with various methods applied when tears do not flow normally. Treatment options include eye drops, medications containing antibiotics and corticosteroids, stents used to keep tear ducts open, and surgery.
If epiphora is caused by allergies and infections, antihistamine drops can be preferred. This treatment can control watering and provide relief.
In cases of tear duct obstruction, different approaches may be considered. Probing is a method applied to open the tear duct. In some cases, placing a silicone tube or performing surgical interventions may be necessary.
Eyelid problems are among the factors that can lead to epiphora. Structural abnormalities of the eyelid can generally be corrected with surgical operations. These operations can reduce or eliminate the symptom of epiphora by ensuring the proper functioning of the eyelid.
Although epiphora is not a serious health issue, early diagnosis of underlying causes is important. If persistent watering occurs in the eyes, this condition should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist, and appropriate treatment should be initiated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does eye watering occur?
Reasons for eye watering include allergies, infections, tear duct blockages, and eyelid disorders. Dry eye can also reflexively lead to excessive tear production.
What happens if epiphora is not treated?
While epiphora can sometimes be just a discomfort, if the underlying tear duct blockage or infection is not treated, it can lead to serious eye health issues.
How can tear duct blockage be identified?
Constant watering, especially if occurring in one eye, may suggest a tear duct blockage. Eye examination and tests measuring duct patency can be used for diagnosis.
Is eye watering always a serious problem?
Not all eye watering is indicative of a serious disease. However, prolonged or unilateral watering should definitely be evaluated by an eye specialist.