Eye Care
Say goodbye to watery eyes with these tips
If you’re experiencing watery eyes, there are a few things that you can do to work out why and start treatment for them.
- If your eyes feel dry, raw and sore: you may be experiencing dry eye syndrome. Your eyes dry out which can be very uncomfortable. In response to the syndrome your eyes over produce tears, which can then lead to watery eyes. This is more common as we age, as tear production tends to decrease over time.
- If your eyes feel gritty, look red, and there is a crust on them in the morning: you may have conjunctivitis. Most commonly it is caused by a virus, and can also be caused by the use of contact lenses. As it is contagious it’s best to wash your hands regularly, try to keep your hands away from your eyes, and avoid sharing wash cloths and towels
- If your eyes are itchy and swollen: you may be allergic to something such as pollen, grass, an animal, dust or even perfume. Your eyes see the allergen as a threat and try to protect themselves by producing histamine and other substances. You can try to avoid the allergens if possible, such as staying indoors on high pollen count days, keeping pets outside the home, or wearing glasses to keep grass or pollen from entering the eye.
- If your eyes seem to water only at certain times or in specific places: your eyes may be irritated by something such as dust, wind, smoke or contact lenses. Again the best thing to do is avoid the triggers for your watery eyes where possible, or reducing their impact. For instance you could stay indoors or wear glasses when it is windy, alternate your contact lenses with frames, and try to reduce the dust in your home - for instance by mopping instead of sweeping, having floor boards instead of carpet, and using blinds instead of curtains.
When it comes to treatment, the majority of the symptoms can be alleviated with some over the counter products from your chemist such as lubricating eye drops, antihistamines and creams.
If your eyes don’t clear up with treatment from the chemist, or other symptoms occur, it’s best to consult your doctor as you may need the help of prescription drugs or drops.