Why Is My Eye Watering or Feeling Dry?

The surface of the eye is delicate and highly sensitive. When something feels off—whether your eye is watering too much or feeling uncomfortably dry—it can interfere with daily life. Understanding the causes behind these symptoms can help you decide when to seek professional care.

Common Causes of Eye Watering

Watery eyes, also called epiphora, occur when the tear system produces too many tears or cannot drain them properly. Causes may include:

  • Allergies or irritants: Dust, pollen, smoke, or strong perfumes.
  • Blocked tear ducts: Preventing tears from draining normally.
  • Eye infections: Such as conjunctivitis.
  • Dry eye paradox: Sometimes very dry eyes reflexively produce excessive tears.

Why Your Eye May Feel Dry

Dry eye occurs when your tears don’t provide enough moisture. This can cause burning, stinging, or a gritty sensation. Common causes include:

  • Environmental factors: Air conditioning, screen use, or dry climate.
  • Age-related changes: Tear production naturally decreases with age.
  • Medical conditions or medications: Thyroid disease, diabetes, antihistamines, or blood pressure medicine.
  • Contact lenses: Overwear can disrupt the tear film.

What You Can Do

Simple steps may help manage mild symptoms:

  • Use preservative-free artificial tears.
  • Blink often, especially during screen time.
  • Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce irritation.
  • Avoid smoke or direct air blowing into your eyes.

Conclusion

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require emergency attention, it is safer to call your healthcare provider or eye clinic for advice.

With Pakistan’s internationally trained and most experienced cataract surgeons, corneal transplant surgeons and eye surgeons specializing in every single sub specialty in ophthalmology, The Eye Center – Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates in Karachi provides guidance for both routine and urgent eye care needs. Their team can advise whether you should schedule a screening or seek immediate attention, ensuring safety and comfort. For expert consultation, contact The Eye Center – Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates at 03041119544 to book an appointment.

With a proven track record of excellence in glaucoma and cataract care, Dr. Mahnaz Shah and her team are here to help you protect your vision—with confidence.