long-term stress. It is commonly found in elevated levels in the blood under very stressful conditions. Patients in burn-rehab hospitals have high levels of cortisol, as do those who are clinically depressed. It is the main substance you and your nervous system: How stress affects your body Continued on page two
Symptoms & Signs. Tearing is a normal function of the eye. Excessive tearing, or teary eyes that are not from normal crying, can be a sign of an underlying health condition or disease. The tears of the eye come from the tear gland, called the lacrimal gland, which is located above the outer eye. Tears are composed of water, oil, and antibodies.
In babies, the tear duct may not be fully open and functioning for the first several months of life. In older adults, persistent watery eyes may occur as the aging skin of the eyelids sags away from the eyeball, allowing tears to accumulate and flow out. Sometimes, excess tear production may cause watery eyes as well.Allergies or viral infections (conjunctivitis), as well as any kind of inflammation, may cause watery eyes for a few days or so.n infants, persistent watery eyes, often with some matter, are commonly the result of blocked tear ducts. The tear ducts don't produce tears, but rather carry away tears, similar to how a storm drain carries away rainwater.