What illness causes constant tearing?
Dec 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Excessive tearing is generally caused by conditions such as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, conjunctivitis, or lipid-deficient dry eye disease. Because the underlying causes vary, treatment options differ accordingly; therefore, patients should promptly visit a hospital to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate therapy. Besides the aforementioned conditions, excessive tearing may also result from other disorders, such as trichiasis.
Excessive tearing is generally caused by conditions such as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, conjunctivitis, or lipid-deficient dry eye syndrome. As treatments vary depending on the underlying cause, patients are advised to seek medical care at a hospital for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
1. Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: This condition typically occurs when a blockage prevents normal drainage of tears, leading to tear accumulation. Once a certain volume accumulates, tears overflow from the eyelid, causing discomfort. For mild cases, medications may be used under medical guidance, such as ofloxacin eye ointment or tetracycline hydrochloride capsules. Patients with more severe symptoms may benefit from lacrimal duct laser probing.
2. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis causing excessive tearing is usually due to microbial infection, external irritants, or allergic reactions. Upon onset, patients are advised to take medications such as ganciclovir tablets or ofloxacin capsules as directed.
3. Lipid-Deficient Dry Eye Syndrome: This condition causes excessive dryness in the eyes. Without timely treatment, it can trigger reflexive tearing. Patients with lipid-deficient dry eye syndrome may use sodium hyaluronate eye drops or polyvinyl alcohol eye drops as prescribed by a physician.
In addition to the above conditions, excessive tearing may also result from other disorders such as trichiasis, which requires active treatment.
