What causes watery eyes and pain at the outer corner of the eye?

Watery eyes accompanied by pain at the outer corners may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as conjunctivitis or keratitis.

I. Physiological Factors

This may result from foreign objects like hair or eyelashes falling into the eye, causing friction and irritation. It could also stem from prolonged use of contact lenses, which may rub against the cornea, or from extended periods of reading, using mobile phones, or other activities leading to eye strain and fatigue.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Conjunctivitis

This may occur due to frequently rubbing the eyes with dirty hands, using substandard eye cosmetics that irritate the eyes, or exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal fur, leading to conjunctivitis. Inflammation then causes ocular irritation.

2. Keratitis

This may develop from long-term contact lens wear or corneal injury, or result from infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, or viruses, leading to keratitis. Localized inflammation then irritates the corneal tissue.

In addition to the above, conditions such as dacryocystitis may also be responsible. It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the exact cause.