Watery Eyes (Excess Tearing) — Why It Happens &
How to Treat It

Watery Eyes (Excess Tearing) —
Why It Happens & How to Treat It

Sick eyes of an adult man with a tear in his eye close-up

Watery eyes—also called excess tearing or epiphora—can be frustrating and embarrassing. While it may seem counterintuitive, excessive tearing is often a sign of dry eye or irritation, not too much moisture.

The good news: most causes of watery eyes are treatable once the underlying issue is identified.

MiVision offers thorough evaluations and same-week appointments in our Saginaw Office.

Common Causes of Watery Eyes

Dry Eye Syndrome

  • When the tear film is unstable, the eyes overproduce reflex tears.

  • These tears lack proper oil and evaporate quickly.

  • Learn more: Dry Eye Treatment

Allergies

  • Pollen, dust, or pet dander can trigger tearing, itching, and redness.

  • Often seasonal or environmental.

Irritation or Foreign Body

  • Dust, smoke, wind, makeup, or contact lenses can irritate the eye surface.

  • Tearing is the eye’s protective response.

Blocked Tear Ducts

  • Tears cannot drain properly, causing overflow.

  • More common with age or chronic inflammation.

Eyelid Position Problems

  • Eyelids that turn inward or outward can disrupt tear drainage.

  • Can cause constant tearing and irritation.

Infection or Inflammation

  • Conjunctivitis or eyelid inflammation may increase tearing.

  • Often associated with redness or discharge.

Systemic Conditions

  • Diabetes and autoimmune disease may affect tear quality and drainage.

  • Learn more: Diabetic Eye Care

External reference: Excessive Tearing

When to Schedule an Eye Exam

You should be evaluated if you experience:

  • Constant tearing in one or both eyes

  • Tearing with burning or gritty sensation

  • Overflowing tears in cold or windy conditions

  • Tearing with blurred vision

  • Redness, pain, or discharge

  • Tearing that interferes with reading or driving

If tearing is associated with discomfort or pressure, also see: Eye Pain or Pressure

How MiVision Evaluates Watery Eyes

Your exam may include:

  • Tear film quality and quantity testing

  • Eyelid and tear duct evaluation

  • Dry eye assessment

  • Screening for infection or inflammation

  • Review of systemic health and medications

Treatment Options

  1. Dry Eye Treatment
    • Treating dryness often reduces reflex tearing.
    • Improves tear quality so eyes stay comfortable.

      Learn more: Dry Eye Treatment

  2. Allergy Management
    • Allergy drops or medications reduce inflammation and tearing.
    • Environmental adjustments may also help.
  3. Lubricating Eye Drops
    • Preservative-free drops soothe irritation and stabilize the tear film.
  4. Eyelid Hygiene or Warm Compresses
    • Helps improve oil gland function and tear balance.
  5. Treatment for Infection or Inflammation
    • Prescription drops may be used when infection is present.
  6. Tear Duct Evaluation or Referral
    • Blockages may require specialized treatment or procedures.
Why do my eyes water when they feel dry?
Can watery eyes be caused by dry eye?
Is excess tearing serious?
Do watery eyes get worse with age?

Schedule Your  Evaluation Today!

Dr. Mihlstin and our experienced team offer advanced care, close to home.  Call 989-321-2655, book online or contact us below.

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