Watery Eyes

Some medications such as capecitabine, cytarabine, doxorubicin, and fluorouracil may contribute to the development of watery eyes.

What are watery eyes?

• Watering of the eyes, or excessive tearing (called epiphora), occurs when tears spill out of your eyes, even when you are not crying. This is sometimes a result of a blockage in the eye's drainage system, or if you are producing too many tears. You may notice the eye problems when your eyes produce excessive amounts of tears. This may also be your eye's reaction to an allergy.
• You may produce tears as a reflex, such as if a foreign object is in your eye, or if you are crying, or you may produce tears to lubricate your eye, which is common.
• A blockage in the eye drainage system may be present. This may be a result of trauma, or you may have been born with it.
• Eye problems such as irritation may be caused by many things, including:
• Allergies - such as pollen, dust, or pet dander
• Infections - such as conjunctivitis
• Air in your environment- such as pollution or smoke
• Foreign objects, such as sand or dust.

What are some symptoms of eye problems to look for?

• Excessive tearing, even when you are not crying.
• Many times, the tearing is painless.

Things you can do about eye problems:

• To prevent or treat a blockage of the eye's drainage system: If you have a history of sinus infections, this may cause a blockage in your eye's drainage system. Make sure to seek healthcare advice if you think you are developing a sinus infection, and take oral antibiotics, if your healthcare provider suggests.
• Use warm compresses to help your eye to drain, if you have any type of eye infection.
• Surgery may be recommended for your eye problems if there is an extensive blockage. This also depends on many factors, including your health condition, and the location of the blockage. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• If you have tearing as a result of allergies of irritants in the air, try to eliminate them from your work or home environment. An air cleaner may be necessary.
• If you have a dry eye syndrome, ointments or artificial tears may help.

Drugs that may be prescribed by your doctor for eye problems:

• You may be prescribed eye drops to treat this condition.
• If you are prone to trauma, which may contribute to this condition (such as dust), wear safety goggles. Also, protect your eyes from light by wearing dark or colored glasses.
• Follow all the instructions your doctor provides.
• Make sure to keep all appointments.
• Do not share your medications with anyone.

When to call your doctor or health care provider:

• If you develop any sudden severe eye pain.
• If you have a sudden loss of vision.
• If your eyes become sensitive to light, or if you see halos around your eyes.
• If your symptoms of eye problems worsen or do not improve within 3 days of treatment.
• As always, notify your doctor or healthcare provider if you are concerned about any of the symptoms of eye problems you are experiencing.

Note: We strongly encourage you to talk with your health care professional about your specific medical condition and treatments. The information contained in this website about eye problems and other medical information is meant to be helpful and educational, but is not a substitute for medical advice.