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Stopping Watery Eyes: Tips from Alexandria’s Eye Care Experts

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Watery eyes can be more than a minor annoyance—they can interfere with daily tasks, make vision blurry, and even cause discomfort. While some tear production is natural and essential for healthy eyes, excessive tearing can signal underlying issues. From allergies and environmental irritants to dry eye syndrome, understanding the root cause of watery eyes is the first step toward effective relief.


For residents of Alexandria, Nova Eye Care Center offers expert solutions tailored to address persistent tearing and discomfort. Our experienced eye doctors work closely with patients to identify specific triggers and recommend personalized treatments that provide lasting comfort. In this article, we’ll explore common causes of watery eyes, practical home remedies, and medical treatments available right here in Alexandria. If watery eyes are disrupting your life, these tips and resources can help you find relief.


Close-up of irritated, watery eyes with redness. Learn about common causes of excessive tearing and when to see an eye doctor for relief.

Understanding Watery Eyes

Watery eyes, or excessive tearing, occur when the eyes produce too many tears or are unable to drain them properly. Tears play a crucial role in maintaining eye health by keeping the eyes lubricated, washing away debris, and protecting against infections. However, when tear production becomes excessive, it can blur vision and cause discomfort.


In some cases, watery eyes are simply a temporary reaction to an irritant. However, persistent or chronic tearing may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Conditions like dry eye syndrome, allergies, or even blocked tear ducts can contribute to this problem. Knowing when to consult an eye doctor can make a significant difference in finding effective relief.


For Alexandria residents, Nova Eye Care Center provides comprehensive evaluations to determine the cause of watery eyes and recommend suitable treatments. Understanding the reasons behind excessive tearing is the first step in managing this condition and improving daily comfort.

Common Causes of Watery Eyes

Excessive tearing can stem from various factors, some of which are more common than others.

Common causes of watery eyes:

  • Allergies: Seasonal allergies and indoor allergens, like pet dander or dust, can cause the eyes to become irritated, leading to excessive tearing as a natural defense mechanism.

  • Dry Eye Syndrome: Ironically, dry eyes can lead to watery eyes. When the eyes are too dry, they may produce more tears to compensate, resulting in overflow tearing.

  • Environmental Irritants: Elements like wind, smoke, or pollution can irritate the eyes, prompting them to water in response. Even something as simple as spending time outdoors on a windy day can trigger excessive tearing.

  • Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time or reading without breaks can strain the eyes, leading to watery eyes as they try to stay lubricated.

  • Infections: Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can also cause watery eyes along with symptoms like redness, itchiness, and discharge.


Identifying the cause of watery eyes is essential to finding relief. At Nova Eye Care Center in Alexandria, our eye doctors can help pinpoint the root of your symptoms and recommend targeted solutions, whether it’s managing allergies, treating dry eye syndrome, or addressing environmental factors.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Tips to Stop Watery Eyes

For many Alexandria residents, simple lifestyle adjustments and home remedies can provide relief from watery eyes.

Practical tips from Nova Eye Care Center doctors:

  • Manage Allergies: If allergies are causing your watery eyes, try to reduce exposure to allergens by keeping windows closed during high pollen days and regularly dusting indoor spaces. Over-the-counter antihistamines or eye drops formulated for allergies can also help ease symptoms.

  • Take Break from Screens: Prolonged screen use can strain the eyes, leading to excessive tearing. Follow the “20-20-20 rule”: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.

  • Practice Good Eye Hygiene: Wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid rubbing them. This helps prevent irritation and reduces the risk of infections that can cause watery eyes.

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, which may lead to reflex tearing. Drinking enough water throughout the day supports overall eye health.

  • Use a Humidifier: Dry indoor air can aggravate dry eyes, especially in winter months. Using a humidifier at home can add moisture to the air, helping to keep eyes comfortable.


These simple adjustments can make a noticeable difference in reducing watery eyes. However, if symptoms persist, it may be time to consult with an eye doctor for further assistance. Nova Eye Care Center is here to help Alexandria residents find lasting solutions to manage watery eyes effectively.

Medical Treatments for Persistent Watery Eyes

When watery eyes persist despite lifestyle changes, medical treatment may be necessary to provide relief.

Treatment options recommended by Nova Eye Care Center doctors in Alexandria:

  • Prescription Eye Drops: For cases caused by allergies or dry eye syndrome, prescription eye drops can help manage symptoms and reduce excessive tearing. Anti-inflammatory drops are also available for severe cases.

  • Allergy Medications: If allergies are the main cause, an eye doctor may suggest oral antihistamines or specific allergy eye drops to control the response and alleviate watering.

  • Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome: Persistent watery eyes from dry eye syndrome may require treatments like artificial tear drops, punctal plugs to conserve natural tears, or specialized in-office procedures to address tear gland health.

  • Surgical Options: In severe cases, watery eyes may result from blocked tear ducts. A minor surgical procedure can help open blocked ducts, allowing tears to drain properly and reduce excessive tearing.


Knowing when to consult an eye doctor can be key to finding effective treatment. At Nova Eye Care Center, we offer comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment plans to address the specific causes of watery eyes, helping Alexandria patients find lasting comfort and relief.

Local Eye Care in Alexandria, VA for Watery Eyes

For those experiencing chronic or persistent watery eyes, finding a trusted local eye care provider is essential. At Nova Eye Care Center in Alexandria, we offer specialized care to help patients manage and treat the underlying causes of watery eyes.

Here’s what our team provides:

  • Comprehensive Eye Exams: Our eye doctors conduct thorough evaluations to determine the specific causes of your watery eyes, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to your needs.

  • Advanced Treatment Options: From prescription eye drops to specialized treatments for dry eye syndrome, we offer a range of solutions designed to address both mild and severe cases of watery eyes.

  • Allergy and Dry Eye Management: For patients affected by allergies or dry eye syndrome, our team provides personalized management strategies to help reduce symptoms and prevent excessive tearing.

  • Patient Education and Support: We believe in empowering patients with knowledge about their eye health, providing guidance on home care and preventive measures to support long-term relief.


Nova Eye Care Center is dedicated to helping Alexandria residents achieve lasting comfort and eye health. Whether it’s finding relief from allergies, treating dry eye syndrome, or addressing tear duct issues, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

FAQs

How can you stop your eyes from watering?

To reduce watery eyes, try managing any underlying causes, such as allergies or dry eye syndrome. Using artificial tears, avoiding allergens, taking breaks from screens, and practicing good eye hygiene can help keep eyes comfortable and reduce tearing.

What is the best remedy for watery eyes?

The best remedy depends on the cause. For allergies, antihistamine eye drops can help. For dry eyes, artificial tear drops or a humidifier may provide relief. Consulting an eye doctor can help identify the most effective treatment for your specific symptoms.

What is the cause of watering eyes?

Watery eyes can be caused by various factors, including allergies, dry eye syndrome, environmental irritants, eye strain, or infections. Identifying the root cause is key to finding the right solution.

How do I stop being teary-eyed?

Managing screen time, staying hydrated, using eye drops for moisture, and protecting your eyes from allergens or harsh weather can help reduce excessive tearing. For persistent issues, see an eye doctor to explore treatment options.

What causes watery eyes to worsen?

Watery eyes can worsen due to prolonged exposure to allergens, environmental factors like wind or pollution, or underlying conditions such as dry eye syndrome. Age and certain health conditions can also contribute to worsening symptoms.

Can allergies make my watery eyes worsen?

Yes, allergies are a common cause of watery eyes. Exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander can trigger excessive tearing as a defense mechanism, especially during peak allergy seasons.

How can I stop watery eyes from screen time?

To prevent watery eyes from screen use, follow the “20-20-20 rule”—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and allows your eyes to relax.

When should I see an eye doctor for watery eyes?

If watery eyes are persistent, interfere with daily activities, or are accompanied by other symptoms like redness or pain, it’s best to consult an eye doctor. Alexandria residents can visit Nova Eye Care Center for a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan.


Watery eyes can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but with the right understanding and care, relief is within reach. By identifying the causes and following effective treatment options, you can reduce excessive tearing and improve your quality of life. For Alexandria residents dealing with persistent watery eyes, Nova Eye Care Center offers expert evaluations and personalized solutions to address the root of the problem.


If watery eyes are affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate—schedule a consultation with one of our experienced eye doctors at Nova Eye Care Center. Our team is here to provide you with targeted treatments and guidance to help you achieve lasting comfort and clarity.

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