Have you experienced or seen someone whose eyes keep dropping tears? Like, uncontrollably, the eyes keep tearing, and this may not be due to emotions. If you have, then you will understand this topic very well and if you haven’t then walk through this interesting topic with us. Before we proceed have you ever wondered the science behind tears? Do you know why we cry?
DO YOU KNOW WHY WE CRY?
Crying can be caused by emotions like sadness, anger, and happiness. It can help us feel better and release built-up tension. But crying can also happen because of physical reasons, like getting something in your eye or feeling physical pain.
The composition of tears includes water for moisture, oils for lubrication and to prevent evaporation, and mucus to ensure even spreading across the eye’s surface. Moreover, the mucus in tears contains antibodies and special proteins to resist infections, as well as transporting oxygen and nutrients to the surface cells of the eyes, as there are no blood vessels in the eyes
WHAT IS EPIPHORA?
Epiphora is the medical term for excessive tearing or watery eyes when there is an overflow of tears onto the face, It can occur in one eye or both or worse in one eye than the other without any clear explanation. The occurrence of epiphora results from either an overproduction of tears or obstruction in tear drainage. Normally, a thin film of tears is produced to lubricate the eye and the excess fluid drains into the lacrimal duct (a place where tears are collected). When the lacrimal duct cannot hold the volume of fluid, it flows down the cheek. This is why you tear because excessive tears are produced that flow through the lacrimal drainage system (which the lacrimal duct is part of)
Epiphora is associated with insufficient or failure of drainage of the tears from the eye or poor eyelid functions due to deformity. This constant or excessive tearing can distort vision, making normal visual functions difficult.
There are numerous reasons for epiphora, some of which may not require treatment. While it can be temporary, it might indicate a severe eye infection or tear duct blockage. Tears provide moisture and protection for your eyes. If you consistently experience watery eyes either the eyes produce too many tears, or you may have issues with tear drainage, leading to vision problems, thus leading to epiphora (watery eyes). Epiphora can affect anyone, and it is a common experience for most individuals at some point in their lives. However, a chronic watery eye, which refers to frequent occurrences of epiphora, are more prevalent in infants and adults over 50 years old.
Please stay tuned to our subsequent posts, as we thoroughly discuss Epiphora. To consult an Optometrist visit TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako Abuja.
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