Why Is Only One Eye Watering? Common Causes and When to See an Eye Doctor
if you are wondering why is only one eye watering, the usual reason is that tears on that side are either being over-produced because something irritates the eye, or they can't drain away properly. A blocked tear duct, dry eye, ingrown lashes, eyelid position problems and inflammation are the most common culprits.
If you have been dabbing one eye all day while friends ask whether you just watched a sad film, you know how annoying this is. Here is what may be going on, and when it's worth getting checked.
How tears normally drain
Your eyes make tears all the time to keep the surface moist. The tears then flow into tiny openings at the inner corner of the eyelids, down the tear duct and into the nose. If one side makes too many tears or drains too few, that eye overflows.
Common reasons one eye waters
Blocked tear duct: the drainage channel narrows or blocks, so tears pool and spill. Some people also notice discharge or swelling at the inner corner.
Dry eye: it sounds backwards, but a dry, irritated surface can trigger extra reflex tearing.
Ingrown or misdirected lashes: lashes rubbing on the eye cause irritation and tearing.
Eyelid turning in or out, or a lax lower lid: the drainage opening no longer sits against the eye, so tears run down the cheek. Eyelid position is something an oculoplastic surgeon assesses closely; see our upper blepharoplasty guide for how eyelid anatomy is evaluated.
Inflammation or infection: such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis or a stye.
A foreign body or allergy: dust, a stray eyelash or an irritant.
How an eye doctor finds the cause
An ophthalmologist will take a history, examine the lids, lashes and eye surface, and may check whether the tear drainage system flows freely. Treatment depends on the cause, ranging from eye drops and treating inflammation to surgery on the eyelid or tear drainage system in selected cases.
Simple self-care in the meantime
Dab gently with a clean tissue, avoid rubbing, wash your hands before touching your eyes, and don't use steroid eye drops without a prescription.
Why is only one eye watering and when is it urgent?
eye pain, marked redness or blurred vision
a red, tender lump at the inner corner, pus or fever
blood-stained tears
watering that started after an injury to the eye or face
watering that continues for several weeks without improving
Book a consultation with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Preamjit Saonanon in Thong Lo, Bangkok
Opening hours: Thursday 16:00–20:00 and Saturday 09:00–20:00
This article is general information and does not replace a medical examination. Results vary from person to person.
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