Tears are produced by glands above your eyes and made up of water, oil, and mucin to keep your eyes moist and free from debris. But when tears overflow rather than draining properly, it could be due to various causes, including:
- Eyelid inflammation or misalignment
- Poor tear film quality
- Blocked tear ducts
- Allergic reactions or conjunctivitis
- Environmental irritants (smog, chemicals)
- Reflex tearing from bright light, strain, or facial movement (laughing, yawning)
At Eye Associates, we identify the specific cause of tearing and tailor our approach—whether that’s medical or surgical—to restore comfort and vision health.
Diagnosis
We begin by carefully evaluating the eyelid position, tear drainage, and tear quality. This clinical assessment allows us to determine whether the cause is functional (like tear overproduction) or structural (such as a duct blockage or eyelid problem).
Treatment options
Medical Management
For inflammation, allergies, or surface irritation, we may prescribe eye drops or recommend hygiene practices.
Surgical Intervention
When tearing results from structural issues—such as blocked ducts or eyelid malposition—our specialists provide precise surgical solutions to correct drainage and restore tear balance.