How to Treat Excessive Tearing
After your Ophthalmologist has determined the cause of your excess tearing, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- The use of an ointment or eye drops to help lubricate the eyes
- Surgery to open a blocked drainage system
- Surgery to repair an injury to the drainage system
- The removal of an inturned eyelash or other particles in the eye
- A dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) to create a new opening the lacrimal sac into the nose
- The insertion of an artificial tear duct implant
Your Ophthalmologist will discuss the most appropriate form of treatment with you during your appointment.
How to Determine the Cause of Excessive Tearing
To find the cause of excessive tearing, you will need to visit an Ophthalmologist. During this time, your Ophthalmologist a few tests to determine the underlying source of the problem. Some of the evaluations they may use include:
- Use fluid to irrigate your tear drainage system and ensure the pathway is opened correctly.
- Measure your eye pressure
- Measure your tear production
- Use a fluorescent dye test to illuminate your tear drain
- Perform a computerized tomography (CT) scan