Have you heard of Epiphora? Also known as excessive tearing, this condition results from exposure to foreign materials, like dust. With several possible causes, epiphora may require professional care to fully resolve.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of epiphora and what to do if you develop this condition.
What is Epiphora?
Epiphora may also be called excessive tearing or watery eyes. The condition is characterized by tear overproduction, inadequate tear drainage, or a combination of the two.
Other than watery eyes, epiphora can trigger the following symptoms:
- Red eyes
- Eye soreness or sharp eye pain
- Eyelid swelling
- Visible, enlarged blood vessels in the eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
What Causes Epiphora?
Oftentimes, epiphora is caused by factors that resolve on their own and don’t require professional medical care, such as:
- The common cold, flu, or a sinus infection
- Environmental irritants, like smoke or wind
- Allergies, including hay fever or allergic rhinitis
- Certain medications that cause excessive tear production
- A scratch, cut, or foreign object in the eye
Other possible causes of epiphora are more serious and require medical treatment from a trusted physician, such as:
- Eye infections or inflammation, including keratitis, pink eye, stye, or an ingrown eyelash infection
- Abnormal eyelid positions, including:
- Trichiasis, with which the eyelashes grow backward into the eye
- Entropion, with which the eyelids turn inward, causing irritation
- Ectropion, with which eyelids turn outward, exposing the inner eyelid and creating the risk of irritation
- Dacryocystitis, is a condition involving tear duct obstruction or narrowing due to inflammation, infection, or a foreign object
Dr. Clavenna at ENT Associates is board-certified in Otolaryngology and a fellowship-trained Rhinologist with sub-specialty expertise in complex cases involving the nose, paranasal sinuses, and anterior skull base. He offers a range of advanced treatments for epiphora, including lid repair, punctal irrigation, and endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).
Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment for excessive tearing and get on the path to relief.
