It can be quite puzzling and uncomfortable when you notice only one of your eyes watering. You might be going about your day when suddenly, your left eye starts tearing up, while your right eye feels perfectly normal. This common yet often concerning symptom has various potential causes, ranging from simple irritants to more specific eye conditions. Understanding why this happens is the first step towards finding relief and ensuring your eye health.
One of the frequent culprits behind a single watery eye is inflammation of the eyelid, known medically as blepharitis. This condition arises from a buildup of debris or oily secretions at the base of the eyelashes. Imagine tiny particles or natural oils accumulating along your eyelid margins. This buildup can irritate the eye, leading to redness, dryness, and, importantly, watering. Because blepharitis can sometimes affect one eye more than the other, it’s a common reason why you might experience watering in just your left or right eye. Regular eyelid hygiene is often recommended to manage this issue.
Another common cause of a single watery eye is a stye. A stye is essentially a small, painful lump that develops on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. These glands, called Meibomian glands, are located near the eyelashes and produce oil that helps lubricate the eye. When one of these glands gets clogged, often by debris or makeup, it can become inflamed and infected. In the early stages, a stye is known as a hordeolum and is typically tender and irritated. As it matures, it may become a chalazion, a firmer, less painful bump. Since styes are localized infections of individual glands, they very often affect only one eye at a time, leading to unilateral watering. Warm compresses are a primary home treatment to help unclog the gland and alleviate the symptoms.
Eye scratches, or corneal abrasions, are another reason for sudden, unilateral eye watering. The cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, is highly sensitive. Even a minor scratch can cause significant pain, redness, blurred vision, and excessive tearing. Because injuries are often isolated to one eye, a scratch will typically cause watering in only the affected eye. It’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention for a suspected corneal scratch, as these injuries can easily become infected if not properly treated.
Makeup habits can also contribute to a single watery eye. Many cosmetic products, especially those used around the eyes, contain ingredients that can irritate the delicate ocular surface. Eyeliner or makeup applied directly to the waterline, the inner edge of the eyelid, is particularly problematic. This area is where the Meibomian glands release oils, and makeup can block these glands, leading to irritation, infection, and styes, all of which can cause watering. Moreover, old or contaminated makeup is more likely to harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of eye irritation and infections. Always adhere to makeup expiration guidelines and ensure thorough makeup removal each day.
Contact lens wear can also be a cause of unilateral watery eyes. While soft contact lenses are generally designed for comfort, they can sometimes cause irritation, especially if they are damaged or improperly fitted. If you wear contact lenses and notice unusual watering in one eye, the first step is to remove the lens and carefully inspect it for any rips, tears, or debris. A damaged lens can directly irritate the eye, causing it to water. Furthermore, contact lens wearers are at a higher risk of eye infections, which can manifest as watering in one eye. If the watering persists after removing the lens or if you suspect an infection, it’s essential to consult an eye doctor.
While many cases of a single watery eye are due to minor irritations or conditions that can be managed at home, it’s important to know when to seek professional medical advice. If your left eye watering persists despite home care, is accompanied by significant pain, changes in vision, or signs of infection like pus or increased redness, you should consult an eye doctor. They can accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment to ensure your eye health and comfort.
