How Can Cold With Watery Eyes Be Treated?

Posted on Thu, 26 Apr 2018

Question: Have a nasty heads cold
Along with it my Left eye starts tearing and builds up a mucus which got crusty overnight
No Pain

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
warm compresses

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
There is a duct that drains the tears you make into the back of your throat. it is called the nasolacrimal duct. It can get blocked when you have a head cold and then the tears come out instead of draining normally. Use warm compresses (not hot) on the area just below the eye and this may help open up the duct. Decongestants may also help. This will resolve when the cold is over.
Regards,
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (4 minutes later)

Should I see an ophthalmologist?
My eye has gotten quite red and slightly swollen
Is this typical also?
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
yes see someone

Detailed Answer:
If it is red and swollen then you may have developed an infection from the inflammation and blockage. I think you could see a primary care doctor for this or an ophthalmologist. Go to whichever one you can get into the quickest.
Dr. Robinson

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar