Quick version
Watery eyes are usually caused either by overproduction of tears or by tears not draining properly. A common misconception is that it always involves “too much fluid” – but in reality, dry eyes are the most common cause. When the eye becomes dry, the body tries to compensate by producing more tears, which leads to watering.
Other common causes include allergies, eye infections, irritation from screens or wind, and problems with the tear ducts. In some cases, there may also be an underlying condition, such as an autoimmune process. Temporary symptoms are usually harmless, but if the problem is persistent, affects only one eye, or is combined with pain or vision changes, it should be further evaluated.
What causes watery eyes?
When your eyes water, it is either because the body produces too many tears or because tear drainage does not function properly. What many people don’t realize is that one of the most common causes is actually the opposite of what you might expect – namely dry eyes. When the surface of the eye becomes dry or irritated, the body tries to compensate by increasing tear production. The result is that the eyes start watering. It is therefore not uncommon to feel both dry and watery at the same time.
7 causes of watery eyes
There are several different explanations for why the eyes start to water, and sometimes it can be a combination of factors.
Dry eyes – the most common cause
A very common cause is dry eyes, where the balance of the tear film does not function optimally. This can cause a sensation of burning, irritation, or feeling like something is in the eye. Despite this, the eyes may start watering as a reflex.
Allergy
Allergy is another common reason. In allergic conditions, the body reacts to substances such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, which often leads to itchy, red, and watery eyes. Symptoms from the nose, such as sneezing or nasal congestion, are also common.
Conjunctivitis
With conjunctivitis, the eye becomes irritated and inflamed, which can cause it to both water and feel sticky. The eyes may be red and sometimes produce discharge, making them feel “glued together,” especially in the morning.
Blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelid margin
Some people have problems with blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid margin. This can cause long-term irritation with burning, discomfort, and recurrent watery eyes. Many describe it as their eyes never feeling completely comfortable.
External factors – screens, wind, and dry environments
External factors also play a major role. Prolonged screen use, dry air, wind, or contact lens use can irritate the eyes and trigger tear production. This is often noticeable as increased watering in certain environments or situations.
Blocked tear ducts
In some cases, it is not about overproduction of tears, but rather that they cannot drain properly. If the tear ducts are partially blocked, the eye may water constantly, sometimes more on one side than the other.
Underlying disease
Finally, there are situations where watery eyes may be linked to an underlying condition. One example is Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects the body’s mucous membranes. In such cases, it is common for both the eyes and mouth to feel dry, while the eyes may still water.
When should I contact healthcare for watery eyes?
Watery eyes often resolves on its own, especially if it is caused by temporary irritation or environmental factors. However, if the symptoms are long-lasting, recur frequently, or change over time, it may be wise to investigate the cause further. The same applies if you experience pain, changes in vision, significant redness, or if only one eye waters constantly.
In persistent cases, blood tests may provide a better understanding of the underlying cause. This may include checking for inflammation (blood count), autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome (antibodies), or blood sugar levels if diabetes is suspected. In some cases, hormone tests or a broader health assessment may also be relevant to understand the full picture. Investigating symptoms early can help determine whether they are temporary or part of a condition that requires treatment.
What can I do myself?
For mild symptoms, there are several things you can do to relieve discomfort. Using lubricating eye drops can help stabilize the tear film and reduce irritation. It is also important to take regular breaks if you work a lot in front of screens, as blink frequency often decreases. The environment plays a big role, so avoiding dry air and strong drafts can make a significant difference. If you have issues with eyelid inflammation, careful cleaning of the eyelid margins can be an important part of treatment.