$Unique_ID{BRK01669}
$Pretitle{Nervous System and Sense Organs}
$Title{Causes for Excessive Tearing}
$Subject{eyes tearing}
$Volume{F-21}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Causes for Excessive Tearing


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QUESTION:  I am never without a tissue in my hand, for I am constantly
"crying" with the tears just flowing down my cheek.  I am not sad or anything,
and just don't know why this is going on, but it all seemed to start when I
turned 70.  Can you tell me what is wrong?

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ANSWER:  As we age, our "tearing system" changes.  Tear ducts, that allow the
tears to drain out of the eye, become narrowed or blocked causing excessive
tearing and repeated eye infections.  Surprisingly, even the "dry eye
syndrome" can cause excessive tearing in an attempt to keep the eye's surface
wet.  Aging decreases the amount of tears and the consistency of the tear
film.  The eye becomes irritated and in response, produces more tears, but
they just don't have the right ingredients to lubricate the eye.  Artificial
tears are recommended.  Or course exposure to a constant irritant can cause
excessive tearing.  Your own doctor can check to make sure there is nothing
embedded in the eyelid or eye.  If the problem is a blocked duct, your doctor
may treat it with antibiotic eyedrops, then send you to a specialist to have
the ducts syringed, a minor and painless procedure, which usually clears up
situations such as yours.  If that fails, you may require a major operation
called a "dacryocystorhinostomy" (whew), which forms a new channel through
which your tears can drain inside your nose.  This is a delicate operation and
is performed only in cases where the person suffers from repeated eye
infections.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
