WATERY EYES

Watery eyes are common, requiring thorough assessment of the tear supply and drainage system of the eyes, writes

KRISTINE JENSEN of Eyes of Howick.

The Tear System

The lacrimal or tear system produces watery or aqueous tears and drains the old ones away. Along with the eyelids, lashes and brows, protects the eye from irritants, pollutants, foreign bodies and infection.

The lacrimal gland releases aqueous to be distributed across the eye surface with each blink. These tears contain antimicrobials, protein and electrolytes – all to maintain a healthy eye surface. Tears exit the eye with each blink, being pumped into the lacrimal sac before escaping down the nose. Watery eyes can indicate a blockage in this drainage system or an irregularity of the eye lid margin which may allow the tears to simply ‘fall’ out of the eye. This type of watery eye usually occurs in one eye only, and be fairly constant in nature.

MEIBOMIAN OR OIL GLANDS:

Healthy eyes have around 60 meibomian glands distributed between the upper and lower lids. They release clear oil or lipid into the tear film providing additional lubrication and reducing undue evaporation of the aqueous layer – thus allowing for a clear, smooth optical surface.Lipid deficiency disrupts the pH or acidity level of our tears, creating a ‘toxic tear syndrome’, whereby tears become an irritant. This leads to further watering of the eyes. Lipid deficient or evaporative dry eye tends to involve both eyes and will lead to more intermittent watering.

Reach Out For An Accurate Diagnosis

When we examine a ‘watery eye’, we carefully examine your tear supply and drainage system along with ensuring your eyelids are healthy and correctly positioned to aid a good lacrimal and tear system.We will work closely with you to enhance your tear-film.

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