The Truth About Crying: Know More About Emotional Crying, Reflex Tears, Basal Tears

We cry for many reasons. The tears flow even when we try our to hold them in. Men have more testosterone, which inhibits tears. On the other hand, women have more prolactin, which stimulates tears.

Three different types of crying that exist, involving different mechanisms and chemicals. They are:

‘Three different types of crying that exist, involving different mechanisms and chemicals. They are: emotional crying, reflex tears and basal tears.’

Emotional Crying: These tears are produced in such a large quantity. They flow down our cheeks and overflow and overwhelm the nasal canal of the tear ducts. Main causes of this type of crying: stress, frustration, sadness, and happiness, and any other emotion that evokes tears.

Reflex Tears: These tears help flush out random speck of dirt or any object that gets into the eye. They also protect the eyes from irritants such as wind, smoke, and chemicals. A good example of reflex tears are those that you cry while chopping an onion.

Basal Tears: A protein-rich antibacterial liquid is constantly secreted by the lacrimal gland. The gland is present in the outer edge of the eyeball. When we blink, the liquid is released, which then lubricates the entire eye surface. These tears protect eyes by lubricating them.



Source: Medindia