Watery discharge is primarily excess tearing rather than mucus or pus. It can result from irritation, reflex tearing, or problems with tear drainage.
Causes
Allergic or viral conjunctivitis, dry eye (with reflex tearing), environmental irritants, and corneal abrasions commonly increase tear production. Blocked or narrowed tear ducts prevent normal drainage and cause continual watery eyes without much redness.
- Patients may complain of tears running down the cheeks, especially outdoors
- Dry eye paradoxically causes watering when the surface is unstable
- Eyelid malposition such as ectropion disrupts tear drainage and leads to watering
- Neurological or facial nerve issues can alter blink and tear pump function
Assessment
Examining the ocular surface, lids, and tear drainage system helps differentiate causes. Treatment may involve lubricants, anti‑allergy drops, lid surgery, or tear duct procedures.
- Persistent watering with minimal redness should prompt lacrimal system evaluation
- Protective glasses can reduce irritant-induced tearing outdoors
- Addressing dry eye often reduces reflex watery discharge
- Infants with watery eyes may need guidance on massaging or probing tear ducts
