Have you ever wondered why we cry?

Whether it’s from the emotional pull of a heartbreaking movie, the sting of chopping onions, or even sheer joy, our tears tell a fascinating story.

Did you know that our eyes produce an impressive 15 to 30 gallons of tears a year, as revealed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology? That’s a lot of emotion and protection packed into those tiny droplets!

Although other animals shed tears, scientists have often claimed humans are the only species to cry for emotional reasons. However, a recent Japanese study discovered that dogs may also shed tears of joy when reunited with their owners. How heartwarming is that?

The Three Types of Tears

1. Basal Tears

These are the silent caretakers of your eyes, working behind the scenes all day long. Every time you blink, basal tears spread across your eyes to improve vision, wash away dirt, and fend off infections. Think of them as your eyes’ 24/7 maintenance crew.

2. Reflex Tears

Ever teared up while slicing onions? These are reflex tears, designed to protect your eyes by washing away irritants like smoke, particles, or chemicals. Produced primarily by the lacrimal glands, these tears are mostly water, with added antibodies to fight germs.

3. Emotional Tears

When emotions overflow, so do these special tears. Emotional tears contain unique substances like stress hormones and manganese, which may help release pent-up stress and calm your body. Interestingly, emotional tears aren’t automatic—they’re triggered by the brain’s limbic system, which sends signals to activate the lacrimal glands.

How Are Tears Made?

The watery component is produced by the lacrimal glands located above your eyes.

Mucus and oil, essential for tear stability, come from the meibomian glands along your eyelids.

Together, these elements form a three-layer tear film:

Inner mucus layer: Keeps tears attached to the eye.

Middle watery layer: Hydrates the eye and fights bacteria.

Outer oily layer: Prevents tears from evaporating.

Why Do We Cry Emotional Tears?

Emotional tears may have evolved as a way to elicit empathy and support from others. Studies show that people who cry and receive comfort feel better than those who suppress their tears. So the next time someone lends a shoulder to cry on, you’re not just sharing a moment—you’re experiencing a deeply human connection.

What Is Dry Eye?

As we age, tear production naturally slows down, which can lead to dry eye—a condition that causes discomfort and affects vision. To keep your eyes healthy:

1. Apply warm compresses daily to maintain gland function.

2. Use artificial tears for extra hydration.

3. Consider omega-3 supplements to improve tear quality.

Tears may seem simple, but they’re a blend of biology, emotion, and evolution that keeps our eyes—and our hearts—working perfectly. So, the next time you find yourself shedding a tear, remember: it’s not just crying; it’s nature’s way of keeping you connected and cared for.