Watery Eyes (Epiphora)
What are Watery Eyes (Epiphora)?
Watery eyes, or epiphora, refer to excessive tearing, often caused by either overproduction of tears or poor drainage through the tear ducts. While occasional tearing from wind, dust, or allergies is common in Singapore’s climate, persistent watery eyes may point to an underlying eye condition that requires attention.
Common symptoms
These symptoms often vary depending on the root cause and should be properly assessed if they persist. Watery eyes may occur in one or both eyes and can be constant or intermittent.
- Itchiness or redness
- Foreign body sensation
- Burning or stinging
- Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia)
- Headache or dull ache around the eyes
- Blurred vision
Diagnosis & eye tests
If over-the-counter remedies or pharmacy advice don’t relieve your symptoms, you should consult an ophthalmologist. At Eagle Eye Centre, your eye examination may include:
- Slit-lamp examination to assess surface and internal eye structures
- Tear drainage test using dye to check tear flow
- Imaging such as CT scan or X-ray (in select cases)
- Visual acuity testing
- Corneal staining or sample swabs (if infection is suspected)
These tests help us determine whether your condition is related to tear duct blockage, eyelid malposition, or other underlying issues.
Why watery eyes should not be ignored in Singapore?
Given Singapore’s hot, humid, and often dusty climate, tear overproduction or poor drainage is a common concern.
Infection or inflammation
Blocked tear ducts
Post-surgical complications
Structural eyelid issues
Why watery eyes should not be ignored in Singapore?
Common causes
- Dry eye syndrome
- Blocked tear ducts
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Corneal abrasions or ulcers
- Eyelid abnormalities such as ectropion or entropion
- Chalazion (stye)
- Trichiasis (inward-growing eyelashes)
- Recent eye surgery such as cataract removal
How to manage watery eyes at home?
For mild symptoms, you can try:
- Warm compresses to clear blocked glands or ducts
- Cleaning the eyelids gently with warm water
- Taking regular screen breaks to reduce eye strain
- Flushing the eye with clean, lukewarm water if a foreign particle is suspected
- Avoiding contact lenses temporarily if irritation occurs
If symptoms persist despite these measures, professional treatment is advised.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your ophthalmologist will tailor a treatment plan based on your diagnosis and lifestyle needs.
Lubricating eye drops
to relieve dryness
Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal medications
for infections
BlephEx™ cleansing
to manage chronic blepharitis
Cold compresses
to reduce inflammation
Allergy medications
for environmental triggers
Lifestyle adjustments
such as reducing screen time or avoiding allergens
Treatments
WHAT YOU SEE MATTERS
Experiencing watery eyes, discomfort, or vision changes?
Don’t ignore the signs. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and protect your eye health. At Eagle Eye Centre, our specialists provide expert evaluation and personalised treatment. Book your appointment today for clearer, more comfortable vision.