7 tips for dealing with watery eyes
Tearing can be caused by allergies, dry eye, or irritants. Learn how to ease symptoms and support everyday eye comfort.
Watery eyes can be more than just a small annoyance. In some cases, they can make it hard to read, drive, watch TV or enjoy time outside. Eyes may water for many reasons. Sometimes, it’s due to allergies or smoke. Other times, it could be a sign of an eye condition like a blocked tear duct or dry eye.
No matter the cause, there are simple ways to help manage this issue and protect vision. Here are seven helpful tips for dealing with watery eyes.
1. Identify the cause
Watery eyes often happen because of something in the environment. Smoke, pollen or dust can irritate the eyes and cause them to make more tears.1 In other cases, the eyes may be dry, and the body tries to make up for it by producing extra tears.2 Some people may also have blocked tear ducts that prevent tears from draining properly.3
Knowing the cause can help with choosing the right treatment. An eye care provider can help find out what’s going on.
2. Stay away from triggers
Allergens and irritants in the air can make eyes watery. Pollen from trees, grass or flowers may cause seasonal symptoms. Other common triggers include wildfire smoke, strong winds or even indoor things like scented candles and cleaning sprays.
Keeping windows closed on days with high pollen or poor air quality may help reduce eye irritation. Wearing sunglasses outside can also protect the eyes from dust and wind. And using an air purifier may reduce allergens in the home.
The easiest way to stock up on contacts
Find dailies, monthlies, extended wear and more, from all the top brands.
3. Try over-the-counter eye drops
Lubricating eye drops, also called artificial tears, can help keep eyes moist and comfortable. These drops can wash away irritants and give relief to dry or watery eyes. They are often available at drugstores without a prescription.
For those using eye drops more than a few times a day, it’s best to choose drops that are preservative-free. Some ingredients in eye drops may cause more irritation if used too often.
Stay on top of your eye health with an in-network provider. Search for an eye care provider now.
4. Take screen breaks
Looking at screens for long periods can lead to fewer blinks, which can dry out the eyes. That may cause the body to make extra tears, leading to watery eyes.
To help with this, try the 20-20-20 rule when using screens. Every 20 minutes, look at something else 20 feet away for 20 seconds.4 This gives the eyes a short rest and can help prevent dryness. Keeping screens at eye level and a safe distance away can also reduce strain.
5. Avoid rubbing the eyes
When eyes feel itchy or irritated, rubbing may seem like a quick fix. But this can actually make the problem worse. Rubbing can spread germs or make the eyes more inflamed, which may cause even more tearing.
Instead of rubbing, try using a clean, damp washcloth to gently wipe away tears or soothe the eyes. Cool compresses may also help ease swelling and irritation.
Already have a primary care doctor who knows you inside and out? Add an eye care provider to your care team to take care of your eyes. Search the UnitedHealthcare Vision Network now.
6. Keep eyelids clean
Sometimes, watery eyes are linked to a condition called blepharitis. This is when the eyelids get red and swollen, often because of bacteria or clogged oil glands.5 Keeping the eyelids clean may help reduce this problem.
Using a gentle eyelid wipe or a warm, damp cloth to clean the eyelid area can help remove oil and buildup. This may also keep the tear glands working better and lower the chances of infection or irritation.
7. Know when to see an eye care provider
Watery eyes can sometimes go away with simple care. In other cases, they may be a sign of something more serious. It may be time to get help if:
- Symptoms last for a long time
- Symptoms happen often
- There is pain or vision changes
An eye care provider can check for infections, blocked tear ducts or other eye conditions. The provider may suggest treatments such as prescription eye drops, warm compresses or minor procedures to fix tear drainage problems.
Sources
- Tear Burns Are Irritating – Here’s What Causes Them Cleveland Clinic, August 20, 2025
- Dry Eyes Cleveland Clinic, June 20, 2025
- Blocked tear duct Mayo Clinic, August 18, 2025
- 20-20-20 to Prevent Digital Eye Strain American Optometric Association
- Blepharitis Mayo Clinic, September 20, 2025
