Epiphora is a condition where there is excessive watering of eyes, clinically the condition constitutes insufficient tears drainage from the tear drainage system (i.e. Nasolacrimal system).
Epiphora is diagnosed by clinical observation, history and presentation of the lids.
Fluorescein dye (to detect the obstruction).
If the Epiphora is due to lid disorder ie, (ectropion - lids turned inwards or ectropion - lids turned outwards), then lid repair is indicated, punctual irrigation is also required. In infants with nasolacrimal defects, a nasolacrimal duct probe is used and a tube replacement, either temporary (Crawford) or permanent (Jones), is carried out. A surgical procedure called dacryocystorhinostomy is done to join the lacrimal sac to the nasal mucosa in order to restore lacrimal drainage.
Temporary symptomatic relief may be achieved for a short time using homeopathy. Long-term benefit may not be achieved. Homeopathy is not recommended for epiphora.
Euphrasia, Natrum Mur, Pulsatilla, Allium Cepa, e.t.c