Epiphora describes what eye condition?

• A. Dry eye
• B. Watery eye
• C. Eye strain
• D. Blurred vision

Answer: (B)

Epiphora is the watering of the eye—excessive tearing that overflows instead of draining normally through the tear ducts. This happens when tears aren’t draining properly through the nasolacrimal system, or when the eye is irritated and tears are produced in excess. It’s different from dry eye, which involves insufficient or unstable tear film and a gritty or burning sensation; dry eye can sometimes trigger reflex tearing and look similar, but the defining feature of epiphora is tears overflowing onto the lashes and cheeks. Understanding this helps you distinguish tear drainage problems or surface irritation as the cause, rather than issues like eye strain or blurred vision.