We’ve all suffered from watery eyes at some point in our lives, whether it was due to allergies, a cold, or a sad movie. However, if you’re constantly tearing up, there may be another culprit: dry eye syndrome. It sounds counterintuitive, but it’s true! In this blog post, we’ll explore the surprising link between dry eye and watery eyes and how you can find relief.  

Why dry eye leads to watery eyes 

Dry eye is a common condition where your eyes don’t make enough tears or they make poor-quality tears. When your eyes are dry, your brain sends a signal to your eyes to make more tears. In response, your body produces excess tears to lubricate your dry eyes. Unfortunately, these tears are typically of lower quality and don’t provide the same relief as your natural tears. 

Other symptoms of dry eye 

Dry eye causes more than just watery eyes. It also leads to other symptoms like sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and itchiness. It may feel like there’s something in your eye or like your eye is burning. Additionally, you might have trouble wearing contact lenses or staring at screens for long periods.  

Common causes of dry eye 

Dry eye can happen for many reasons. Factors like age, gender, certain health conditions, the environment, and even some medications can all play a role. For example, women have a higher chance of developing dry eye due to hormonal changes that occur throughout their lives. Additionally, spending a lot of time on computers or living in dry, dusty, or windy areas can raise your risk. Certain medications like antihistamines and antidepressants can also affect your tear production.  

Treatment for dry eye 

Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help you find relief. You can start by using over-the-counter eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable as well as taking frequent breaks from screens. If these options don’t work, your eye doctor can suggest the best treatment option for your specific case. Treatment may involve prescription eye drops, blinking exercises, or punctal plugs to block tear drainage.  

If you’re dealing with dry eye symptoms, it’s important to see a professional who can identify the underlying cause. Our expert eye doctor at New England EyeWorks in Keene, New Hampshire specializes in diagnosing and treating dry eye. We offer a range of treatments to help you find relief and improve your overall eye health, including light therapy and a deep cleaning of your eyelids and eyelashes. Don’t let dry eye affect your quality of life—schedule an appointment with us today!