Why Do My Eyes Burn and Become Watery?

Have your eyes ever felt as if they were burning intensely and producing copious watery tears, much like when you're actually crying? If so, you're not alone. This discomfort can be caused by several factors, ranging from dry eye syndrome to allergies or exposure to irritants. Understanding these causes can help you manage your symptoms more effectively.

Understanding the Symptoms

When you cry, your eyes are naturally filled with tears that may contain high salt content. This, paired with the emotional triggers, can lead to a burning sensation. However, other conditions such as dry eyes, allergies, or underlying eye diseases can also explain this uncomfortable sensation.

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome

One of the most common causes of eye burning and excess tearing is dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Dry eye syndrome can be influenced by a variety of factors, including aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, and environmental conditions.

Fortunately, addressing dry eyes can be relatively straightforward. Using preservative-free artificial tears frequently can provide relief, even during emotional crying. This means that even though your eyes might produce watery tears due to the irritation, artificial tears help to manage the uncomfortable burning sensation.

Eye Irritation and Foreign Objects

Eye irritation can also cause your eyes to burn and water. This can occur when exposure to irritants like smoke, pollution, or chemicals, can cause this sensation. Similarly, a foreign object such as dust, sand, or an eyelash can also cause your eyes to become irritated, produce a burning sensation, and result in watery tears. In such cases, flushing your eye with saline solution or artificial tears may help wash away the irritant or foreign object.

Allergies and Eye Infections

Allergies can cause your eyes to become red, itchy, and watery. This condition, known as allergic conjunctivitis, is particularly common during allergy seasons, and can be triggered by substances like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain chemicals. Similarly, eye infections such as conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, can cause burning, redness, and excessive tearing.

Eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or even certain allergies and can lead to further eye irritation. Proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving medications or other therapies, are essential for resolving these issues.

Contact Lens Issues

Wearing contact lenses improperly can also lead to eye burning and tearing. Extensions use, improper lens care, or wearing damaged lenses can cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing. It's crucial to follow proper hygiene and care instructions for your contact lenses to avoid these issues.

Eye Fatigue and Digital Eye Strain

Extended use of digital devices, prolonged reading, or straining your eyes can also result in eye fatigue and discomfort. This can manifest as dryness, burning, and watery eyes. Taking breaks, using artificial tears, and practicing good eye hygiene can help alleviate these symptoms.

Seek Professional Help

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it's best to consult an eye care professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This can help determine the exact cause of your eye discomfort and address it effectively.

Conclusion

Your eyes can burn and produce watery tears due to a range of reasons, from dry eye syndrome and allergies to eye irritation or foreign objects. By understanding the root causes, you can manage your symptoms more effectively and find relief.

References

[1] Mount Sinai. Eye burning - itching and discharge Information
[2] Causes for Burning and Watery Eyes, MedicalNewsToday,
[3] One Eye Burning and Watering: 15 Possible Causes and Treatment, Healthline,