Persistent watering eyes
When the glands in the eyes are not functioning as they should and eyes become dry it could be Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).
How do eye glands work?
Glands in the eye usually produce an oily substance that reduces the evaporation of tears between blinks. However, if the glands are blocked and the oily substance is not produced as it should be then the eyes can become dry and sore and extra tears are produced to compensate.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
The most likely cause of dry eyes is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and can be resolved with lubricating eyes drops. Holding a clean and warm, damp cloth over the eye for 5 minutes whilst gently massaging the cloth over the eyelids will also help to remove any substances that may be blocking the glands.
Hypromellose Drops
Hypromellose drops can be bought over the counter for lubricating the eyes and for some these work very well. However, if watering eyes persist then an appointment should be made with the GP for further investigation.
Other causes of weeping eyes
Other possible causes of persistent watering eyes could be an infection, an allergy, blocked tear ducts, entropion (eyelids that roll inwards) or ectropion (lower eyelids that sag away from the eyes).
Alternatively, you may have a stye on your eyelid. Click here to see how to deal with styes.
Disclaimer
All content on Silversurfers.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated at all as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Silversurfers will not be responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content on www.silversurfers.com and we are also not liable for the content of any external websites or links from or to Silversurfers to any other websites. Please always consult your own doctor if you’re in any way concerned about any aspect of your health.
Melina - Assistant Editor
Latest posts by Melina - Assistant Editor (see all)
- Remembering the Big Freeze of 1963 - November 21, 2024
- Is your hot water bottle safe to use? Tips on what to look out for - November 20, 2024
- Tips on dealing with a frozen windscreen without using a spray de-icer - November 19, 2024
- 5 Homemade edible gifts in a jar - November 15, 2024
- The best of the Rolling Stones - October 22, 2024
