---
title: Epiphora
description: "[Epiphora means watery eyes](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-epiphora-understanding-watery-eyes/), where tears overflow down the cheek instead of draining normally. It can be annoying, blur vision, and cause skin soreness, especially in cold or windy weather. ## Causes of epiphora Watery eyes usually result from either…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/epiphora/"
updated: "2026-01-22"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Epiphora

[Epiphora means watery eyes](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-epiphora-understanding-watery-eyes/), where tears overflow down the cheek instead of draining normally. It can be annoying, blur vision, and cause skin soreness, especially in cold or windy weather.

## Causes of epiphora

Watery eyes usually result from either too many tears or poor drainage. Often both play a part.

- Dry eye or irritation makes the eye reflexly produce extra tears.
- Narrow or blocked tear ducts stop normal drainage into the nose.
- Eyelid malposition can pull the drainage openings out of place.
- Infection or inflammation of the tear sac may also contribute.
- Assessment includes dye tests and sometimes imaging of the drainage system.

## Treatment and relief

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Many people gain good control with simple measures or minor procedures.

- Lubricating drops and allergy treatment can calm reflex tearing.
- Eyelid problems may be corrected with small oculoplastic operations.
- Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery creates a new drainage pathway to the nose.
- Good lid hygiene helps in cases linked with blepharitis.
- Seek advice if tearing is constant, painful, or linked with repeated infections.