If there is persistent watering of eyes coupled with redness and itching, do not ignore as it can be dacryocystitis an inflammation of tear sacs.
This condition can also lead to swelling , blurred vision, sore eyelids and sticky eyes and in some case fistula.
Dr Pallivi Joshi, consultant cornea surgeon, Sankara Eye Hospital, says, “See your ophthalmologist if you notice persistent watering of eyes coupled with discharge, redness, and itching. Avoid self-medication."
The problem can affect anyone, but it’s most common in young babies and people older than 60. Glands in the eyelids (Meibomian glands) normally secrete an oily substance that slows the evaporation of tears between blinks. When these glands don’t function properly, known as Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), it can result in dry patches. These become sore, and extra tears are produced as a reflex. This is the most likely cause of watering eyes,feel experts.
Apart from this ,"Lower eyelid sagging away from the eye (ectropion) makes it difficult for tears to reach the drainage ducts, eyelids that roll inwards (entropion), inflammation of the edges of the eyelids (blepharitis), blocked or narrowed tear ducts, eye irritation (for example, from chemical fumes or grit), eye infection such as conjunctivitis can all cause watering of eyes,” says Dr Bhujanga Shetty, director, Narayana Netralaya.
An ophthalmologist will look for blockages in your tear ducts, using local anaesthetic eye drops to help reduce any discomfort. This involves inserting a tiny probe into the narrow drainage channels on the inside of your eyelid to determine whether they are blocked. Fluid may also be injected into your tear duct, to see whether it comes out normally. “Through a small surgery, blocked duct can be corrected and the watering of eyes can be addressed,” he says.
If a person’s eyes are producing extra tears as a result of dry eye syndrome, he/she may be offered lubricating eye drops and advised to avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
In kids, the ducts are small and hence there will be watering most of the time, but in a year's time, the ducts will open up.