What should I do if my eyes tear up while riding a bike?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, eye tearing while cycling may be caused by cold wind irritation, foreign body in the eye, allergic conjunctivitis, chronic conjunctivitis, or blocked tear ducts. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general measures, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance. Before cycling, routinely check that protective eyewear is clean and avoid wearing damaged lenses.
Under normal circumstances, tearing while riding a bicycle may be caused by cold wind irritation, foreign bodies in the eye, allergic conjunctivitis, chronic conjunctivitis, or lacrimal duct obstruction. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medication, or other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Cold wind irritation: While cycling, cold wind directly blowing on the ocular surface can stimulate increased tear secretion from the lacrimal gland, exceeding the drainage capacity of the tear ducts and resulting in tearing. Wearing windproof goggles or sunglasses with wind protection can reduce direct exposure of the eyes to cold air. Additionally, slowing down cycling speed appropriately may help reduce irritation.
2. Foreign body in the eye: Dust, insects, or other foreign objects may enter the eye with airflow, stimulating the cornea and causing tearing. Immediately stop cycling and close the eyes to allow tears to naturally flush out the object. If the foreign body remains, gently wipe it away using a clean cotton swab dipped in physiological saline. Do not rub the eye. Seek medical assistance when necessary.
3. Allergic conjunctivitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or willow catkins during cycling may trigger an allergic reaction in the conjunctiva, leading to symptoms including tearing and itching. Avoid cycling during periods of high allergen concentration, wear well-sealed protective goggles, and follow medical advice to use medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine syrup, or chlorpheniramine maleate tablets.
4. Chronic conjunctivitis: Long-term inflammation of the conjunctiva due to bacterial infection or environmental irritants may worsen during cycling, causing tearing accompanied by increased eye discharge. Maintain good ocular hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes with dirty hands. Follow medical advice to use antibiotic eye drops such as levofloxacin eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or chloramphenicol eye drops.
5. Lacrimal duct obstruction: Blockage in structures of the tear drainage system—such as the puncta or canaliculi—prevents normal tear outflow, making tearing more noticeable during cycling. Medical evaluation is required; initial treatment may include lacrimal duct irrigation. If ineffective, a probing procedure (lacrimal duct intubation) may be needed to clear the blockage and restore normal tear drainage function.
Before regular cycling, check that goggles are clean and avoid wearing damaged lenses. In terms of diet, consume more foods rich in vitamin A, such as blueberries and carrots, and reduce intake of spicy and irritating foods to support overall eye health.
