Crying is a fundamental human response that occurs for various reasons. We shed tears in times of sorrow and heartbreak, and conversely, when overwhelmed with happiness and joy.
Interestingly, we also cry when performing everyday tasks, such as chopping onions, even when we’re not feeling emotional.
what explains our propensity to cry in such diverse circumstances? The Top 5 Potential Health Problems Linked to Excessive Crying
There are essentially three primary reasons for our tears:
-Emotional tears:
These tears flow abundantly when we undergo intense feelings, whether joyful or sorrowful.
Basal tears:
We often overlook these tears, which are necessary for keeping our eyes moist and healthy.
Reflex tears:
These tears are produced in reaction to irritants such as smoke, dust, or the act of cutting onions.
Let’s explore each type of tear further and delve into the science behind their occurrence.
1. Emotional tears
Emotional tears consist of a complicated blend of water, electrolytes, and hormones. During moments of heightened emotions, such as sadness, loss, or happiness, our bodies release certain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These substances can stimulate the lacrimal gland situated above the eye to generate tears.
Emotional tears may have several functions; some researchers suggest they aid in releasing stress hormones and alleviating emotional tension.
Some believe that tears may serve as a means of expressing our feelings to others, inviting sympathy or solace.
While crying from happiness is rarer, it does occur. Tears of joy may act as a release for the intensity of positive feelings or as a means of conveying gratitude or immense delight.
2. Basal tears
Throughout the day, our eyes generate a consistent thin layer of tears, known as basal tears, which are crucial for maintaining eye health. These tears help to moisten the eye’s surface, remove dust and particles, and provide protection against infections.
Basal tears often go unnoticed since they are absorbed through small ducts in your eyelids. However, if your eyes feel dry or irritated, tear production might increase, leading to watery eyes.
3. Reflex tears
Reflex tears serve as a defense mechanism.
When an irritant enters your eye, such as smoke, dust, or onion fumes, your body reacts swiftly to eliminate the irritant. The lacrimal gland becomes highly active, generating an abundance of tears to cleanse the area of the harmful material.
Onions release a compound known as sulfenic acid when cut. This substance then disperses into the air and, upon contact with your eyes, interacts with the moisture in your tears, forming a mild sulfuric acid.
Your body identifies this as an irritant, prompting a reflex to produce tears to flush it away.
Interestingly, other animals also produce reflex tears. For instance, dogs and cats may tear up if they have debris in their eyes.
So, what accounts for the various reasons we cry?
Each type of tear has its unique function. Emotional tears assist us in managing and releasing intense feelings, while basal tears are essential for maintaining eye health.
Additionally, reflex tears serve to shield our eyes from irritants.
Here are a few more fascinating details about tears:
Tears produced from happiness may have a different chemical composition compared to those shed in sorrow.
Crying can also offer health advantages. Research indicates that it can lower stress hormones and enhance overall mood.
However, not everyone is able to cry. Some individuals suffer from a condition known as achalasia, which impairs their ability to produce tears.