7 Possible Causes Of Watery Eyes (Epiphora) In Babies

Have you heard the term epiphora before? It is a very common condition that is  often referred to as teary eyes. Although it can affect people of any age group,. It is most commonly seen in small babies and adults above 50 years of age. You will be surprised to know that nearly 20 percent of babies are born with the congenital epiphora (Different Modalities for Management of Pediatric Epiphora). Read this blog to know more about teary eyes in babies, its possible causes and management. 

What Is Epiphora?

Epiphora, commonly known as watery eyes, is a condition marked by excessive production and overflow of tears from one or both eyes, somewhat similar to crying. Epiphora is often a clinical symptom that indicates an underlying condition or it is caused by the inefficient drainage of tears through the tear ducts. The condition can be easily managed with proper care, however, the treatment depends on the underlying cause. 

Causes Of Teary Eyes In Babies 

1. Blocked Tear Ducts In Babies

Commonly referred to as dacryostenosis or congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO), the condition is present since birth and can affect either one or both eyes. It is marked by a blockage in the tear ducts that affects their ability to drain the tears. CNLDO is the leading cause of teary eyes in babies and, in 90 percent of the cases, it resolves by itself within the first year of the baby’s life.

2. Allergies In Babies

Allergic reactions in babies are not uncommon and it is possibly because their immune system is not yet fully developed. Babies can easily develop allergies to the food they consume, objects they touch, smells they inhale, and more. Allergies in babies often lead to symptoms like runny nose, blocked nose (nasal congestion), postnasal drip, sneezing, and teary eyes. The last one is most commonly seen in the case of allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. 

3. Common Cold In Babies

Babies are very easily susceptible to the common cold and you would be surprised to know that some children may get “as many as 8 to 10 colds each year before they turn 2 years old” (Colds In Children). There are over 200 different types of viruses that can cause common colds and most of the time, the baby does not require any extensive treatment. It is, however, advisable to see a doctor if your baby has a high fever, breathing difficulty, wheezing, and greenish eye discharge.

4. Blepharitis (Eye Dandruff)

Blepharitis (also known as eye dandruff) is a condition marked by inflamed oil glands in the eyelids, especially in the area closer to the eyelashes. Although it is not a serious condition, it can be very uncomfortable. Blepharitis may give rise to symptoms like itchiness, burning sensation in the eyes, crusting around the eyelashes, and teary eyes. Even if the condition is treated, it may keep on recurring from time to time, for years.  

5. Conjunctivitis In Babies 

The condition is often referred to as pink eye, primarily owing to the fact that it causes redness in baby’s eyes. Other symptoms associated with it include watery eyes, swelling, and yellow discharge from the eyes. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and requires prompt treatment. Depending on the underlying cause, it is broadly classified into two types - infectious conjunctivitis and bacterial conjunctivitis. There are several other infections that can affect a baby’s eyes. 

6. Corneal Abrasion In Babies

Corneal abrasion refers to a superficial scratch on the cornea of the eye. It is quite common in babies and is usually caused by foreign objects like dust, sand, bugs, toys, and fingernails. “Corneal abrasions are extremely common among 1- to 12-week-old infants” (Corneal abrasions in young infants). Other than teary eyes, corneal abrasion may give rise to a couple of other symptoms like pain/redness in the eyes, increased sensitivity to eyes, and blinking too much. 

7. Dry Eye Syndrome In Babies 

Dry eyes can be quite uncomfortable for adults, let alone for babies. Fortunately, the condition is quite rare in kids. It is marked by the insufficient production of tears or the production of inefficient tears. Dry eyes can be linked to a variety of underlying ailments and early identification of these can help to manage the condition efficiently. Contrary to the name, the symptoms of dry eyes include watery or teary eyes, along with redness, burning sensation, and mucus discharge. 

Treatment For Watery Eyes 

If your baby has watery eyes, it is advisable to see a doctor for proper evaluation. Doctors may suggest a few tests to determine the underlying cause, based on which the treatment is curated. You should not start any medication without consulting the doctor. 

• If the problem is caused by an infection, such as pink eye (conjunctivitis), antibiotics may be prescribed. Additionally, doctors may recommend regular eye rinsing with saline solution. 

• In 90 per cent of the cases, blocked tear ducts get resolved by the time a baby is one year old. If it does not, doctors may recommend surgery to clear the obstruction. It is a simple procedure, done under the influence of general or local anaesthesia. 

• If trichiasis or ingrown lash is responsible for your baby’s watery eyes, it can be removed by the doctor in a proper clinical setting. Do not try to remove it on your own. 

• Surgery may be required for treating ectropion. This involves the squeezing of the tendon responsible for controlling the outer eyelid. 

Home Remedy For Watery Eyes In Babies 

There are several home remedies that can be helpful in managing mild cases of watery eyes in babies. However, it is advisable to try these only after consulting an expert as what may work for one baby might not necessarily work for others. 

• Saline Water: It is an effective home remedy known to clear eye infections. Since these are somewhat similar to the tears naturally produced by the eyes to clean themselves, these can work great to treat infections. 

• Warm/Cold Compresses: Warm compresses can prove to be quite effective in managing irritation, soreness and infection. Cold compressions, too, help to alleviate the symptoms associated with teary eyes. Make sure that you use a clean cloth or a cotton pad for this.