4 possible reasons you have watery eyes

When you have discomfort in your eyes, it’s hard to overlook. Itchy, watery eyes can easily become a distraction to your day and can make you self-conscious. Here are some possible reasons your eyes won't stop watering.

The most likely cause of watery eyes is allergic conjunctivitis, which is basically the irritation of the eyes due to an allergic reaction to pollen, animal dander or mould spores.

• Generally, this is caused by an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane on the inside of the eyelids, covering the eyeball.
• Toughing it out through allergy season and removing as many causes as possible can help clear this up. However, should your watery eyes persist, consult your doctor.

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an irritating condition brought on by virus or bacteria, allergies, or, in some cases, stress.

• Generally speaking, pink eye is not serious, and can be easily treated with antihistamines and eye drops.
• It can take up to 10 days to clear up.
• Conjunctivitis is highly contagious so it is important to not share towels or washcloths with friends and family, and to make sure you wash your hands regularly, while you are being treated.

It’s possible your watery eyes are just the result of a common cold or the flu.

• Sometimes watery eyes can be early symptoms of colds, so you may be experiencing eye irritation before you have any other cold symptoms.
• If your watery eyes continue for several days without any other cold symptoms, then you may want to consult your doctor to make sure it is nothing more serious.

There is a chance that you are having watery eyes due to a corneal abrasion, caused by your cornea being scratched by a foreign object.

• Common causes are dust or grit under your contact lens, a fingernail or being scratched by an animal.
• In such cases, it is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately, to assess the damage and ensure you do not develop an infection.

Watery eyes are irritating, but for the most part, not a serious problem. However, if you suspect your eye may have been injured in some way, it is very important that you seek your doctor’s opinion, to avoid further and more serious damage.

By understanding the possible reasons you have watery eyes, you’ll be able to treat your condition quickly and return to having more comfortable vision.