Watery Eyes (Epiphora)

Types of watery eyes 

Watery eyes can generally be categorised into two main types, depending on the underlying issue:

1. Overproduction of tears

This happens when the eyes produce an excessive amount of tears in response to irritation, allergies, or other stimuli. The eyes might be trying to flush out an irritant or react to an allergen. 

2. Poor drainage of tears

Occurs when the tear drainage system (puncta and tear ducts) is blocked or narrowed, preventing tears from draining away properly, leading to tears pooling in the eyes and overflowing.

What causes watery eyes?

There are many reasons why your eyes might be constantly watering which can range from simple irritations to underlying medical conditions. The most common reasons:

Irritants

Smoke, dust, strong winds, bright light, or even certain chemicals in the air can irritate your eyes, causing them to produce more tears to flush out the irritant. 

Allergies

Allergic reactions to pollen (hay fever), pet dander, or dust mites can cause itchy, red, and watery eyes. 
Learn more about hay fever and your eyes

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eyes can lead to watery eyes. When the eyes are too dry, they send a signal to produce a flood of tears to compensate, but these tears often lack the proper balance to lubricate the eye effectively.  
Learn more about dry eye syndrome

Blocked tear ducts

Obstruction of the tear drainage system is a common cause of persistent watery eyes. When the puncta or nasolacrimal ducts are blocked, tears are unable to drain effectively and instead overflow onto the ocular surface. Such blockages may arise from infection, inflammation, or age‑related changes.

Infections

Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause inflammation and excessive tearing, often accompanied by redness and discharge. 
Learn more about conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Ectropion

When the lower eyelid turns outwards, preventing tears from draining into the puncta. 

Entropion

When the eyelid turns inwards, causing eyelashes to rub against the eye, leading to irritation and tearing. 

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelids can affect tear quality and drainage. 
Learn more about blepharitis

Corneal abrasions or ulcers

A scratch or injury to the surface of the eye can cause significant tearing and pain. 
Learn more about corneal abrasions

Foreign body in the eye

Even a tiny speck of dust or an eyelash can cause your eye to water excessively as it tries to remove the object. 

Styes or chalazions

Lumps on the eyelid can sometimes interfere with tear distribution or drainage. 
Learn more about styes

Age

As we age, the tear drainage system can become less efficient, leading to more frequent watery eyes. 

Medications

Some medications including chemotherapy drugs, eye drops like pilocarpine and echothiophate iodide, and blood pressure medications like beta‑blockers and diuretics can cause watery eyes. 

When watery eyes need medical help

Most cases of watery eyes are harmless; however, they can occasionally indicate a more serious condition. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience sudden excessive tearing, eye pain, changes in vision, or signs of infection such as pus or pronounced redness. You may also contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for 24/7 medical advice.

Addressing irritants

If environmental factors are the cause, avoiding them (e.g. wearing sunglasses in windy conditions, using a humidifier) can help. 

Allergy management

Antihistamine eye drops or oral medications can relieve watery eyes caused by allergies. 

Dry eye treatment

If dry eye is the cause, artificial tears (eye drops) can help lubricate the eyes and reduce reflex tearing. 
Learn more about dry eye syndrome  

Treating infections

Bacterial infections like conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops. 

Eyelid correction

For conditions like ectropion or entropion, minor surgery may be needed to correct the eyelid position. 

Massage

For infants with blocked tear ducts, gentle massage can sometimes help open the blockage. 

Probing

In some cases, a thin probe can be used to open a blocked tear duct. 

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

A surgical procedure to create a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nasal cavity for persistent blockages. 

Foreign body removal

If a foreign object is causing the tearing, your optometrist can safely remove it. 

How can I prevent watering eyes? 

While not all causes of watery eyes can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage symptoms: 

Practice good eye hygiene

Wash your hands regularly, especially before touching your eyes. Clean your eyelids if you have conditions like blepharitis. 

Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water can help maintain overall body hydration, which supports tear production. 

Regular eye tests

Routine eye examinations can help detect and address underlying issues before they become severe.