Watery eyes are an annoying symptom commonly caused by allergies or dry eye.

Although the symptom is the same, the cause is very different. With allergies, allergens such as pollen, mold, dander, or dust cause the release of histamine which in turn produces itchy, red, watery eyes. Dry eye, on the other hand, is caused by poor tear film stability which triggers the eyes to make reflex, watery tears. Poor tear film stability can be caused by many factors such as advancing age, tear gland problems, systemic disease, and certain medications.

Allergies or dry eye rarely cause serious problems. The symptoms however can overlap with more serious infections and inflammatory conditions that can seriously affect vision so an examination with your eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment is recommended.

By Dr. Cook, O.D.