What should I do if my eyes keep tearing after cataract surgery?

Excessive tearing after cataract surgery may be caused by surgical irritation, corneal sensitivity, foreign body sensation in the eye, conjunctivitis, or keratitis. Symptoms can be improved through proper eye care, avoiding irritants, and medication. If tearing persists or is accompanied by eye pain or vision loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Surgical irritation: During surgery, ocular tissues are traumatized, leading to reflexive over-secretion by the tear glands, resulting in temporary postoperative tearing. It is recommended to keep the eyes clean, avoid rubbing the eyes, and use prescribed postoperative eye drops to protect the ocular surface.

2. Corneal sensitivity: Surgical damage to corneal nerve endings may increase corneal sensitivity, making the eyes prone to tearing when exposed to wind or bright light. It is advised to wear protective goggles outdoors, reduce eye strain, and avoid prolonged screen time.

3. Foreign body sensation: Mild conjunctival edema or suture irritation after surgery may cause a sensation of something in the eye, leading to tearing. Avoid touching the eyes with hands, apply cold compresses as directed to reduce swelling, and allow natural tissue healing.

4. Conjunctivitis: Poor eye hygiene after surgery may lead to bacterial or viral infection causing conjunctivitis, characterized by tearing, increased eye discharge, and conjunctival redness. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as levofloxacin eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or acyclovir eye drops to relieve symptoms.

5. Keratitis: Infection or poor healing of the corneal wound may trigger inflammation, presenting as tearing, eye pain, and photophobia, which may impair vision in severe cases. Under medical supervision, medications such as tobramycin-dexamethasone eye drops, pranoprofen eye drops, or recombinant human epidermal growth factor eye drops may be used to alleviate discomfort.

Maintain clean and dry eyes after surgery, avoid exposure to dirty water or dust, practice proper eye usage with adequate rest, follow a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and attend regular follow-up appointments as instructed to support eye recovery.