Tears are streaming down... It's not even dry, so why all of a sudden?

In case foreign substances enter

When foreign substances such as dust or eyelashes enter the eye, the eye produces more tears to wash them out. For example, when grilling meat over charcoal, fine particles from the smoke can enter the eyes, or during cooking, chemical substances from onions can affect the eyes; these small substances can also influence tear production.

Dry eye syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes become dry due to various causes, leading to discomfort in daily life. It is commonly thought that dry eyes would cause tears to stop flowing, but this is not true. When the tear film on the surface of the eye becomes unstable due to dry eye syndrome, the eyes respond reflexively by secreting excessive tears. Exposure to cold wind can further intensify symptoms such as eye stinging or burning.

Conjunctivitis

Eyes are always exposed to the air, so the cause is often difficult to determine accurately. In particular, conjunctivitis is a common cause of tearing in both children and adults, and it is characterized by red eyes, itching, and a gritty sensation. Bacterial or viral infections are the most common causes. Viral infections do not require treatment, but bacterial infections may require antibiotics or eye drops.

Allergy

Itching and tearing symptoms often occur alongside other allergy symptoms such as cough and runny nose. However, allergy symptoms can also appear only in the eyes, without involving other areas. In such cases, taking allergy medication, using eye drops, and avoiding triggers like pollen, mold, and pet dander can be helpful. A cold can cause tears, but it does not cause itching in the eyes. This is one way to distinguish between a cold and allergies.

Blocked tear duct

The tear gland can be easily understood as a factory that produces tears. Tears originate from the tear gland located above the eye, flow across the surface of the eye, and are drained through the canal at the corner. However, if the canal becomes blocked, tears accumulate, causing the eye to water. This can occur due to congenital factors or acquired factors related to aging.

Eye stye

Styes typically occur with redness, tenderness, and pain at the edge of the eyelid. Afterwards, pressing on it causes pain and a small, round, swollen area forms. Tears flow from the eye, sensitivity to bright light increases, and it may feel like there is a foreign object in the eye. While a stye can cause tears, the more noticeable symptom is usually a swollen, red, painful bump at the edge of the eyelid. It is caused by bacteria, and a stye usually resolves on its own within a few days. During this period, you should avoid touching or trying to pop the stye like a pimple, as infection can spread. Applying a warm compress to the eye can help relieve the pain.