What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- MedlinePlus: Watery Eyes
- MayoClinic.com: Watery Eyes
- MayoClinic.com: Nasal Congestion
- MedlinePlus: Nasal Congestion
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
What Kind of Symptoms Are Watery Eyes, Migraine & Stuffy Nose?
Minor ailments such as headaches, nasal congestion and itchy, watery eyes occur in everyone from time to time 134. Although bothersome, they often are no cause for concern and can be treated easily at home. In some cases, the symptoms are related. Migraine headaches, though, typically are not caused by the same things that lead to a stuffy nose and watery eyes 1. Understanding each symptom can help you determine whether you need to visit your doctor.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Watery Eyes
Your eyes become watery when tear production increases and it cannot be accommodated through either evaporation or drainage through the tear ducts 1. Medically, any number of conditions can cause watery eyes 1. Common culprits include a cold, allergies such as hay fever, eye infections and blocked tear ducts, MayoClinic.com 23. In most cases, treating the underlying condition -- whether it be taking an allergy medication or antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection -- can help keep the watery eyes under control 1.
Migraines
Symptoms of Headaches With Dizziness
Learn More
Severe headaches classified as migraines can be debilitating. Migraines are much worse than a common headache, and often are accompanied by visual disturbances, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting. The cause:
- of migraine headaches remains unknown
- but some people have discovered certain triggers
- including smoking
- alcohol consumption
- chocolate consumption
- food additives
Regular pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin typically are not strong enough to treat migraines, but several prescription drugs can offer some relief for many migraine sufferers.
Stuffy Nose
Nasal congestion typically develops because of swelling and inflammation of the tissue lining the nose, although mucous buildup in the nose can also contribute, MedlinePlus reports 134. People often develop a stuffy nose as the result of common bacterial and viral infections, including colds, the flu and sinus infections. Seasonal allergies also can cause chronic nasal congestion, as can pregnancy 34. A stuffy nose is rarely serious and can usually be treated at home with decongestants or antihistamines, if allergies cause the problem. In babies and young children, using a saline nasal spray can help empty the nasal passages.
When to See the Doctor
How to Get Rid of Pressure Headaches
Learn More
In most cases, watery eyes and a stuffy nose are minor ailments that can be treated at home 1. However, if home care is not effective or if the symptoms persist, visit your doctor. When these symptoms are caused by allergies or bacterial infections, you may need a prescription medication to help you get relief. Your doctor can also help you determine a cause by doing a thorough examination, taking a complete medical history and asking about when and how you experience the symptoms. In the case of migraine headaches, a trip to the doctor is warranted to see if you can establish a cause for the headaches. Your doctor can also help by prescribing medications that are more effective at treating the debilitating headaches.
- In most cases, watery eyes and a stuffy nose are minor ailments that can be treated at home 1.
- Your doctor can also help by prescribing medications that are more effective at treating the debilitating headaches.
Related Articles
References
- MedlinePlus: Watery Eyes
- MayoClinic.com: Watery Eyes
- MayoClinic.com: Nasal Congestion
- MedlinePlus: Nasal Congestion
- Morris S, Eccles R, Martez SJ, Riker DK, Witek TJ. An evaluation of nasal response following different treatment regimes of oxymetazoline with reference to rebound congestion. Am J Rhinol. 1997;11(2):109-15. doi:10.2500/105065897782537197
- Ramey JT, Bailen E, Lockey RF. Rhinitis medicamentosa. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(3):148-55.
- Varghese M, Glaum MC, Lockey RF. Drug-induced rhinitis. Clin Exp Allergy. 2010;40(3):381-4. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2222.2009.03450.x
- Vaidyanathan S, Williamson P, Clearie K, Khan F, Lipworth B. Fluticasone reverses oxymetazoline-induced tachyphylaxis of response and rebound congestion. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010;182(1):19-24. doi:10.1164/rccm.200911-1701OC
- Rhinitis Medicamentosa. Medscape website. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/995056-overview#a5. Updated November 17, 2015.
Writer Bio
Anna Aronson began working as a journalist in 2000 and spent six years at suburban Chicago newspapers before pursuing freelance work. She enjoys writing about health care topics, in particular obstetrics, pediatrics and nutrition. She received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Eastern Illinois University and is now studying for a Master of Science in medicine degree to become a physician's assistant.