Ephiphora  - Symptom


Eye watering due to access tear production (possibly due to dry eye syndrome) or obstruction or blockage of the lacrimal passages in the eye so that there is insufficient drainage of the tear film from the eye.  Blockage may be due to membrane inflammation, injury or a tumour.

Tears function to lubricate, nourish and protect the eye from the environment.  They are spread over the eye by blinking and keep the eye clear, smooth and reduce the risk of infection.  Tears are passed from the tear glands under the upper eyelids and they drain through the puncta near the nose unless they have been evaporated.  Tears are produced continuously and reflex tears are produced in response to emotions or if the eye is irritated.  These tears are produced by the lacrimal gland where as natural normal tear production occur in the Basal gland.

Chronic epiphora is a long-term condition and usually requires treatment.  Acute epiphora is usually temporary and may be caused by a foreign body in the eye or dust, wind, pollen, eyestrain and also stress and lack of sleep.  It does not usually require treatment and is resolved naturally.  Children can be born with congenital epiphora, where the tear duct drainage system is not developed properly. 

As well as excessive tearing, symptoms of epiphora include; matting of the eyelashes and mucous and eye discharge.  An infection can occur if left untreated which can become quite serious and can affect vision.  An eye examination can determine the cause if the excessive tearing.  From this, the best course of action can be taken.  

If the cause of the tearing is punctual obstruction, then a simple procedure can be completed to open the puncta and wash it out.  A dacryocystorhinostomy may be performed if there is obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct in which a new passage is created and a temporary tube is then left in place to keep it from scarring and closing.  If epiphora is caused by dry eye, artificial tears may be given to lubricate the eye.  It is advisable to keep the air moist, to frequently blink and avoiding smoke and wind.



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