VIEWS FOR 20/20 by Dr. Mark Skowron TEARING UP When tears well up in the eye and overflow onto the face for no apparent reason, it can affect daily life. This condition, known as "epiphora," can develop at any age and may affect one or both eyes. It is most common among those aged under 12 months or over 60 years. In the case of newborns with underdeveloped tear ducts, watery eyes are likely to clear up within a few weeks as the ducts develop. Among adults and older children, the most common cause of watering eyes is blocked ducts or ducts that are too narrow. It is important to investigate the underlying cause since stagnant tears in the tear sac increase the risk of infection. Treatment depends on how severe the problem is and the cause. In mild cases, doctors may recommend just watchful waiting, or doing nothing and monitoring the patient's progress. Epiphora is fairly easy to diagnose. To schedule an exam, please call SKOWRON EYE CARE. Experience, commitment to technology, and a genuine concern for patient welfare enable all of our doctors and our highly qualified staff to work as a team to consistently deliver quality. At Skowron Eye Care, your 20/20 vision is our mission. P.S. Narrowed tear ducts usually occur as a result of swelling or inflammation. SKOWRON EYE CARE 370 N. York, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6244 www.skowroneyecare.com VIEWS FOR 20/20 by Dr. Mark Skowron TEARING UP When tears well up in the eye and overflow onto the face for no apparent reason, it can affect daily life. This condition, known as "epiphora," can develop at any age and may affect one or both eyes. It is most common among those aged under 12 months or over 60 years. In the case of newborns with underdeveloped tear ducts, watery eyes are likely to clear up within a few weeks as the ducts develop. Among adults and older children, the most common cause of watering eyes is blocked ducts or ducts that are too narrow. It is important to investigate the underlying cause since stagnant tears in the tear sac increase the risk of infection. Treatment depends on how severe the problem is and the cause. In mild cases, doctors may recommend just watchful waiting, or doing nothing and monitoring the patient's progress. Epiphora is fairly easy to diagnose. To schedule an exam, please call SKOWRON EYE CARE. Experience, commitment to technology, and a genuine concern for patient welfare enable all of our doctors and our highly qualified staff to work as a team to consistently deliver quality. At Skowron Eye Care, your 20/20 vision is our mission. P.S. Narrowed tear ducts usually occur as a result of swelling or inflammation. SKOWRON EYE CARE 370 N. York, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6244 www.skowroneyecare.com