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Tears are a natural and common phenomenon for every human being. It is the fluid secreted by the lacrimal glands, which is located on the outer side of the eye. Tears have been considered as an emblem of emotions, being an expression of joy, sorrow, pain, and all other emotions. But what exactly are tears? How do they work? And why do we shed them so often? In this article, we will take a closer look at tears and the science behind them.

Tears are essential for eye health, as they help to keep the eyes lubricated, wash away debris and protect against infection. It is a combination of saltwater, mucus and oil. The water component in the tear helps to keep the eye moist, the mucus helps the tear to spread evenly over the eye and the oil keeps the tear from evaporating too quickly. The lacrimal gland, which is responsible for the production of tears, is located above the outer corner of each eye and functions throughout the day to keep our eyes lubricated and comfortable.

But tears are not just about eye health, they also play a crucial role in emotional regulation. When we experience sadness, pain or joy, tears are produced as a direct response to these emotions. Although tears might seem like a sign of weakness to some, crying is an essential part of processing emotions, reducing stress and can even enhance our mood. After all, one of the most popular quotes about tears is attributed to William Shakespeare, “To weep is to make less the depth of grief.”

It is also evident when it comes to distinguishing different types of tears. There are three different types of tears: basal tears, reflex tears and emotional tears. Basal tears are produced continuously, helping to keep the eye moist; these tears don’t have any emotional triggers. Reflex tears occur in response to irritants, such as smoke, dust or onions, and can help to flush out debris that may have entered the eye. Emotional tears, on the other hand, are born from strong emotions, such as happiness or sadness. Scientists have found that emotional tears contain higher levels of stress hormones, which is why crying often makes us feel better after a particularly stressful period.

One example is when we yawn; at that moment, tears are produced to keep the eyes lubricated during facial movements. And who hasn’t experienced a good sob that just kept rolling? Overproduction of tears can also occur when a foreign object enters the eye, or when we experience extreme emotions that are hard to contain.

It is interesting to note that humans are one of the few species that cry emotional tears. Some animals like elephants are known to shed tears, but it is unclear whether this is a sign of emotional release or simply a biological function. This gives us a glimpse into the complexity of humans and their emotions, and how tears have been used as a tool for expressing feelings for millions of years.

In some cases, tears can indicate underlying health issues as well. For example, dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the body does not produce enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated. This can lead to redness, irritation and even vision problems if left untreated. Conversely, excessive tearing can be a sign of blocked tear ducts, allergies, or other underlying issues.

Tears are a fascinating phenomenon that has been studied by scientists and poets alike for centuries. They serve multiple purposes, such as maintaining eye health, releasing emotions, and even enhancing our mood. With all their complex functions combined, tears are an integral part of the human experience. So, the next time you shed a tear, remember that it’s a natural and healthy response to life’s ups and downs. After all, “those who do not know how to weep with their whole heart don’t know how to laugh either” (Golda Meir).

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