Reflex tears are only produced in response to irritation, injury or emotion to help rinse the surface of the eye. Five common causes of Dry Eye Syndrome. Blinking helps lubricate the eye by spreading tears across its surface. As you blink, tears are forced inward to the nose, where they flow into the tear drainage ducts, and drain into the nose and throat. If the tear drainage system is overactive, dry eye symptoms or related congestion of the nose, throat or sinus may occur.
Tear production decreases with age.
This reduction in constant tear flow and resulting eye irritation may cause occassional excessive reflex tearing. Contact lens wear can dramatically increase tear evaporation, causing irritation, infection, protein deposits, and pain. Research shows that dry eye is the leading cause of contact lens discomfort. Some medications decrease the body's ability to produce lubricating tears. These include decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics, heart disease and ulcer prescriptions, antidepressants, anesthetics and drugs containing Beta Blockers.