Have your eyes been watering constantly, even when you’re not crying or facing strong winds? Watery eyes, medically known as epiphora, can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. While it may seem like a minor annoyance, persistent tearing could point to an underlying condition that requires attention.

In this blog, Dr. Saurbhi Khurana, an experienced ophthalmologist, explains what causes epiphora, when to seek medical help, and how Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery can offer lasting relief.

What is Epiphora?

Epiphora refers to excessive tearing caused by an imbalance between tear production and drainage. Tears are essential for eye health—they protect, lubricate, and wash away debris. But when they overflow or fail to drain properly, it can lead to blurred vision, irritation, and even infection.

Epiphora can affect one or both eyes and is more common in:

• Infants (due to underdeveloped tear ducts)
• Older adults (due to narrowing of tear drainage passages)
• Individuals with chronic eye infections or trauma

Common Causes of Watery Eyes

There are two primary reasons why your eyes may water excessively:

1. Overproduction of Tears- Your eyes may produce too many tears in response to:

• Dry eye syndrome (reflex tearing)
• Eye allergies
• Irritants like smoke or wind
• Conjunctivitis or other infections
• Ingrown eyelashes or eyelid disorders
  In these cases, your eye is trying to protect itself by flushing out the irritant.

2. Blocked Tear Ducts- Normally, tears drain through small openings in the inner corners of your eyelids (puncta), down into the nose via the nasolacrimal duct. When this system is blocked, tears have nowhere to go and spill over the eyelid.

Tear duct obstruction can be caused by:

• Age-related narrowing
• Chronic sinus or eye infections
• Facial trauma
• Nasal polyps or tumors
• Congenital malformation (in infants)

Symptoms That Shouldn't Be Ignored

While occasional tearing is normal, persistent symptoms could signal a problem. Watch out for:

• Constant tearing without emotional cause
• Sticky or crusty eyelids
• Swelling at the inner corner of the eye
• Recurrent eye or sinus infections
• Pain or redness in the eyes

If you experience any of these signs, it’s time to consult an ophthalmologist.

How is Epiphora Diagnosed?

Dr. Saurbhi Khurana will perform a detailed eye examination that may include:

• Evaluating tear production and quality
• Probing or flushing the tear duct system
• Dye disappearance test
• Imaging (like dacryocystography or CT scan) in complex cases

Once the underlying cause is determined, treatment can be personalized to your condition.

Treatment Options for Watery Eyes

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Lubricating eye drops for dry eyes
• Antihistamines for allergies
• Antibiotics for infection
• Eyelid surgery if eyelid position is abnormal

However, if the issue lies with a blocked nasolacrimal duct, especially in adults, surgical intervention is often necessary.

What is DCR Surgery?

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a procedure designed to restore normal tear drainage when the nasolacrimal duct is blocked.

How It Works- DCR involves creating a new pathway between the tear sac and the nasal cavity to allow tears to bypass the blocked duct. This can be done in two ways:

1. External DCR: A small incision is made on the side of the nose.
2. Endoscopic DCR: Performed through the nasal passage using a camera, with no external scar.

When is DCR Surgery Recommended?

DCR is usually recommended when:

• Tear duct obstruction is confirmed
• Non-surgical treatments have failed
• Recurrent infections of the tear sac (dacryocystitis) occur
• There's a noticeable lump or swelling near the inner eye corner

Benefits of DCR Surgery

• Long-term relief from watery eyes
• Reduced risk of infections
• Quick recovery time (1–2 weeks)
• High success rate (over 90%)

Most patients report significant improvement in symptoms after DCR surgery.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• You may experience mild swelling or bruising, which usually subsides in a few days.
• A temporary silicone tube may be inserted to keep the new drainage pathway open (removed after a few weeks).
• Normal activities can typically resume within a week.
• Regular follow-ups are essential for monitoring recovery.

Can Watery Eyes Be Prevented?

While some causes (like congenital issues or aging) cannot be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

• Protecting your eyes from irritants
• Managing allergies and sinus infections
• Seeking early treatment for eye infections
• Regular eye check-ups, especially after 40

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your eyes have been watering persistently for more than a week, or if you notice associated symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s time to seek medical advice.

If constant tearing is affecting your vision of our daily life, Dr. Saurbhi Khurana can help you find lasting relief. With extensive experience in managing tear duct disorders and performing DCR surgery, she provides personalized, compassionate care to every patient.

Don’t let watery eyes blur your vision or confidence. Book an appointment with Dr. Saurbhi Khurana today to get a clear diagnosis, explore treatment options, and take the first step toward comfortable, tear-free eyes.