If you already have a diagnosed eye condition, such as conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) or an inward-growing eyelash, it may be related to your watering eyes (see causes of watering eyes).
If the cause is not obvious, your GP may refer you to an ophthalmologist (an eye care specialist).
Referral to an ophthalmologist
The ophthalmologist will examine your eyes using local anaesthetic eye drops to help numb them. They will then be able to check for blockages in your tear ducts.
A probe may be inserted through narrow points on the inside corner of your eyelids (puncta) and into the narrow drainage channels on the inside of your eyelid (canaliculi) to determine whether they are blocked. Fluid may also be injected down into your tear duct to see whether it is felt in your throat.
Another test involves placing a drop of a special dye in each eye. If there is a significant amount left in your eyes after five minutes of normal blinking, your tear ducts may be blocked.
If your tear duct is blocked, the ophthalmologist may pass a special fluid down into your tear duct to help pinpoint the location of the blockage. After the fluid has been added, an X-ray will be taken to highlight the blockage.
