Did you know that watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eye? It may sound counterintuitive, but it’s true! In this blog post, we’ll explore why dry eye can lead to watery eyes, how to differentiate dry eye from other eye conditions that cause watering, and ways to treat dry eye and improve your symptoms.
How does dry eye cause watery eyes?
Your tears play a crucial role in protecting your eyes and keeping them moist and comfortable. When your eyes get dry, your body responds by making more tears to help restore moisture. However, these tears might not be as effective at keeping your eyes lubricated as your natural tears. Because of this, your eyes may water constantly as your body tries to compensate for the dryness.
Is it dry eye or something else?
It’s important to know the difference between dry eye and other eye conditions that may cause watering, like allergies or conjunctivitis. With dry eye, you might experience additional symptoms like stinging, burning, a gritty feeling in your eyes, or sensitivity to light. Your eye doctor can run a series of tests to determine if you have dry eye or another condition.
Treatment for dry eye
If you’re diagnosed with dry eye, there are plenty of treatments to help you find relief. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your eye doctor may recommend over-the-counter artificial tears or prescription eye drops to keep your eyes lubricated. They may also suggest lifestyle changes like avoiding dry or windy conditions when possible, taking frequent breaks from screens, using a humidifier, and staying hydrated.
If your condition is more severe, they might recommend other options like punctal plugs, which block the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining away. Your eye doctor will work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
If you’re dealing with watery eyes caused by dry eye, seeking treatment is crucial since this condition can cause long-term vision problems if left untreated. In some cases, dry eyes can damage the cornea, causing scarring or even vision loss. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
At EyeQ Optical, our dry eye specialist in Spokane Valley can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your dry eyes. Remember, taking care of your eyes is an essential part of your overall health and well-being, so don’t neglect your eye health. Contact us today to schedule your eye exam in Spokane Valley.