Unveiling the Mystery of Teary Eyes
Tears are crucial for lubricating your eyes and maintaining overall eye health. They protect your eyes against infection and help flush away debris that may irritate them. However, excessive tear production or faulty drainage can lead to Huntingdon Valley teary eyes, which can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, Suburban Eye Associates offers various treatments, including balloon DCR, to alleviate your symptoms.
Factors contributing to teary eyes
Inflammation or irritation of the eyes is the most prevalent cause of teary eyes. The irritation can be due to allergens such as pollen and pet dander, foreign objects coming into contact with your eyes, and pollutants. Additionally, eye conditions like blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and dry eye syndrome can increase tear production. An obstruction or blockage in your tear duct can hinder the proper drainage of tears from your eyes, leading to excessive tearing. This obstruction can be due to structural abnormalities, age-related changes, or infections. Certain medications like chemotherapy drugs, eye drops, and epinephrine can also cause teary eyes as a side effect.
When to see a doctor about teary eyes
Although occasionally having teary eyes is normal, persistent tearing that distracts you from your daily activities may be due to an underlying health disorder. If you experience blurred vision, pain, discharge, or redness along with your teary eyes, inform your provider immediately. The Suburban Eye Associates team can help you identify the underlying cause and offer treatment to alleviate discomfort. Also, if you have a history of chronic conjunctivitis or dry eye syndrome, you should inform your doctor during your eye exam. The team will review your medical history, perform a thorough eye exam and conduct necessary eye tests to determine the underlying trigger of your teary eyes. Whether it is a blockage in your tear ducts or an infection, your doctor will provide a correct diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment.
Available treatments for teary eyes
Depending on the cause and severity of your teary eyes, your doctor can offer various treatments, including allergy medication, eye drops, and minimally invasive procedures like:
- Balloon DCR
Balloon DCR is a surgery that corrects teary eyes due to blocked tear ducts by creating an alternative drainage system between the tear duct sac and your nose. During this procedure, your doctor will use an endoscope camera to direct a thin wire attached to a deflated balloon into the puncta. They will then meticulously thread the wire into the blocked tear duct and inflate the balloon with liquid. This action exerts pressure on the blockage, forcing it open. Afterward, the balloon is deflated and the wire is removed.
- Punctal plugs
Punctal plugs are biocompatible devices that alleviate dry eye symptoms, including teary eyes. The team attaches the punctual plugs into your puncta to prevent tears from draining out of your eye. The devices compensate for your low-tear production by keeping enough tears inside your eye to maintain adequate lubrication and protect it from aggravations like chronic watering, burning, or itching.
Teary eyes can be disruptive, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like pain and swelling. If your painful tear eyes bother you, call the Suburban Eye Associates office or book an appointment online for diagnosis and treatment.
