Under normal conditions, the lacrimal glands within the eye structure secrete a small amount of tears to maintain lubrication of the eyeball and cornea, counteracting natural tear evaporation. Since the daily tear secretion is minimal and flows along the surface of the eyeball and within the minute gaps of the eyelids, you typically do not perceive the flow of tears.However, with each blink, tears on the eye's surface are drawn into the tear drainage system—the nasolacrimal duct. As the lacrimal glands continuously produce tears and the nasolacrimal duct constantly drains them, people typically do not shed tears under normal circumstances.
Why Do Eyes Tear Up Constantly?
1. External Factors
Some patients experience reflexive tear secretion due to external stimuli like cold air or wind, leading to increased tearing. When excess tears cannot be drained promptly through the tear ducts, they overflow from the eyelids, causing visible tearing.
Management: This is purely a physiological tearing phenomenon. If the external stimulus is removed, the symptom will disappear, so no treatment is necessary.
2. Obstructed tear drainage
Tear production is normal, the tear ducts are unblocked, and flushing is unimpeded. However, laxity of the orbicularis oculi muscle weakens or eliminates the tear pump function, obstructing tear drainage and causing tearing.
Management: This represents functional lacrimal overflow. Strengthen drainage function.
3. Chronic ocular inflammation Conditions like conjunctivitis, trachoma, trauma, foreign bodies, or tumors cause narrowing or partial obstruction of the tear ducts. Reduced drainage prevents normal tear volume from fully entering the nasal cavity, leading to overflow and tearing.
Management: This constitutes organic epiphora, causing tearing even indoors. Prompt medical consultation is advised.
Eye Care Tips
1. Avoid prolonged continuous computer use; take regular breaks. Typically, rest for 5–10 minutes after every hour of work. Maintain proper posture.Adopt an optimal posture where eyes gaze straight ahead or slightly downward at the monitor. This relaxes neck muscles and minimizes the eye's exposure to air.
2. Create and maintain optimal working conditions. Ensure soft ambient lighting, appropriate monitor brightness, and clear display resolution. Adjust desk and chair heights to match computer screen level.
3. If symptoms such as dryness, redness, burning, foreign body sensation, heavy eyelids, blurred vision, or even ocular pressure/headaches persist without significant improvement after rest, consult an ophthalmologist.
4. Ensure at least 8 hours of sleep daily to regulate cerebral cortex blood circulation.
5. Consume ample fresh vegetables, fruits, milk, eggs, animal liver, and lean meat while minimizing fatty, rich, and spicy foods to replenish vitamin A and protein. Drink plenty of tea, as its polyphenols aid in absorbing and resisting radioactive substances.
Experts caution that persistent tearing warrants immediate medical evaluation for eye conditions. Untreated, this not only affects appearance and causes significant inconvenience but can lead to corneal perforation and blindness in severe cases. Additionally, wear protective eyewear outdoors to shield your eyes.