Eye Tearing in Windy Conditions

Eye tearing in windy conditions is a relatively common occurrence in daily life. There are many reasons that can lead to this situation. If it happens occasionally, it may be related to cold weather and strong winds. In such cases, it is important to keep warm. However, if this occurs frequently, it is necessary to investigate whether it is caused by certain diseases, such as trachoma, keratitis, conjunctivitis, etc. Let's briefly understand what causes eye tearing in windy conditions.

Causes of Eye Tearing in Windy Conditions

1. Cold Tears: The eyes do not turn red, but tears often occur, especially when exposed to wind. The tears are clear and dilute. If left untreated, it can lead to dimming of vision and difficulty distinguishing colors over time.

2. Hot Tears: The eyes become red, swollen, and painful, with a fear of light. The tears are sticky and may occur concurrently with other eye diseases.

Diagnosis of Eye Tearing in Windy Conditions

1. Inquiry about the timing of tear occurrence, whether it is congenital or acquired. History of foreign objects entering the eye, such as insects, dust, sand, etc. History of direct exposure to electric light or ultraviolet light. Presence of corneal injury or suture history after eye surgery. Presence of blepharitis, keratitis, iridocyclitis, etc. These reasons can cause excessive reflex tear secretion, resulting in tears flowing outside the eyelid fissure, known as tearing. If there are no such reasons for tear overflow, it manifests as tearing in windy conditions, which should be distinguished.

2. Further inquiry about the presence of purulent discharge overflow. If present, chronic dacryocystitis should be considered. Attention should be paid to the history of trauma. Rupture of the lacrimal canaliculus or scarring and ectropion of the lower eyelid can both cause tear drainage disorders. Deviation of the nasal septum, hypertrophy of the middle nasal concha, nasal polyps, nasal granulation tissue, and nasal infections can all affect the normal drainage function of the lacrimal passage, causing wind-induced tearing of nasal origin.

Treatment and Prevention of Eye Tearing in Windy Conditions

1. Generally speaking, normal functional tearing in windy conditions is a physiological phenomenon and does not require treatment. However, for patients with trachoma, chronic conjunctivitis, and lacrimal passage inflammation, if not treated promptly, it may lead to serious consequences such as eye infection.

2. To prevent eye tearing in windy conditions, it is important to take measures against wind and cold, minimize going outdoors, and avoid contact with cold air.

3. People who rush to work in the morning or exercise in the cold wind should wear masks, scarves, and eyewear to protect their eyes from direct exposure to cold air.