Why does my eye water constantly when I am not crying?
Persistent watering may come from irritation, allergy, eyelid inflammation or blocked tear drainage. Dry eyes can also produce excess reflex tears. The amount of watering alone cannot determine which eye drops are appropriate.
Details
Describe more than watering
Explain whether one or both eyes are involved, and any itching, discharge, pain or relationship to wind and screens. Examination may assess the eye surface, lids and drainage system. Watering alone does not establish infection.
Temporary comfort measures
Avoid rubbing, smoke and irritants, and take screen breaks. Ask a pharmacist or eye professional about lubricants when dryness seems likely. Do not use steroid drops or leftover antibiotics without appropriate advice.
When assessment is urgent
Eye pain, marked light sensitivity, altered vision or severe redness needs urgent assessment, especially in contact-lens users. Persistent watering that affects reading or daily activities also merits examination, even without pain.
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