Guide To Common Eye Problems In Seniors And What To Do About Them

Excessive Tearing

Excessive tearing is a common issue as individuals get older. Anybody can experience excessive tearing and watery eyes from time to time. The majority of cases clear up by themselves. However, if an individual's symptoms are bothersome or don't clear up within a few days, their doctor might need to treat them. In many cases, tearing occurs due to injury or irritation to the eye. The best way to prevent this is by wearing protective eye gear and not using potentially harmful substances or cosmetics around the eyes. Watery eyes might be treated with prescription eye drops. If an individual's eye is infected, they may need to take a course of antibiotics. For those whose symptoms are related to allergies, taking allergy medication may sometimes help. If an individual's tear ducts are blocked, they might be able to help clear them by putting a warm and wet towel over their eyes several times daily. In the most severe cases, there are surgeries available to clear blocked ducts.