
Crying... It is a kind of expression of our emotions such as sadness, happiness, excitement and anger. So why do we cry and what do tears do? Scientific research reveals that we need tears for three main reasons, and explains why this interesting body fluid is salty.
Although it is a predictable data, it is also scientifically proven that women cry more than men. Op. Dr. Levent Tahsin Özdöker, one of the doctors at Çağın Eye Hospital, wrote about all the unknowns and the truth of tears.
Psychological aspect of crying
Crying is often triggered by a strong emotional load. These emotions can be various situations such as stress, sadness, fear, happiness, and even anger. “Crying occurs in connection with the emotional centers of our brain. The limbic system in the brain directs us to strong emotions, which triggers tears. In fact, crying is a reflection of our mood and provides an internal release. Let’s not forget that crying is not just an emotional reaction, but also a biological defense mechanism of our body.
Crying provides a kind of relaxation for the body. After a stressful or intense situation, tears can help restore the body’s chemical balance. Tears also help to moisturize the eyes and cleanse them of impurities. Interestingly, when we shed tears, we heal ourselves not only psychologically but also biologically. Many studies show that tears are an important way to remove stress-related toxins from the body.
Three types of tears: Each serves a different purpose
Primary tears: The eye is constantly in tears. This liquid, which contains oil, mucus, water and salt, is effective in fighting infections. Oil prevents tears from evaporating into the atmosphere. Blinking ensures that tears are evenly distributed over the surface of the eye. This is necessary to ensure healthy vision by keeping our eyes moist at all times.
Eyewash tears: This is the situation that occurs when dust, soil gets into the eyes or when chopping onions. Tears come out of the eyes to keep the eyes clean and moist. This type of tears acts as a defense mechanism for the eyes, providing protection against environmental factors.
Emotional tears: These are tears that occur due to strong emotions such as pain, joy, sadness, and anger. They contain more hormones than other tears and have pain-relieving properties. Shedding tears also helps to eliminate stress-related toxins. Therefore, the tears we shed, especially when we are in pain and sadness, relax us. Interestingly, the more we cry, the more we relax emotionally, which helps us heal both psychologically and physically.
Why are tears salty? Why are tears salty?
All fluids in the human body contain salt. The salt in tears is critical for the survival of microorganisms. Another reason tears are salty is to prevent excessive drying of the eyes. Salt allows fluids to remain on the surface of the eye for longer periods of time, which protects the eyes by keeping them moist. In addition, the saltiness of tears helps to cleanse the eye of foreign substances and potentially harmful microbes.
Do women cry more than men?
Yes, women cry 60 percent more than men. While the exact reason for this is not known, it is thought that women have a stronger emotional infrastructure and therefore cry more. In addition, women's genetic structure and hormone levels can also affect their tendency to cry. Men, on the other hand, are likely to produce fewer tears because their tear ducts are narrower. However, it should be remembered that crying varies from person to person and that each person's emotional responses are different.
Excess or absence of tears: A clue to health problems
In situations like the common cold, your eyes may produce too many tears. This works as a defense mechanism for the body and helps protect it from external factors. However, in some cases, tear production can decrease, leaving your eyes dry. If your tear glands don’t produce enough oil to make essential tears, your eyes can become dry, making it difficult to see.
On the other hand, some diseases or medications can affect tear production. Especially as we age, the tear glands become less effective, which can cause dry eyes. This can cause problems such as burning, stinging, and blurred vision in the eyes. If you notice a significant increase or decrease in your tear production, it is important to see an eye doctor.
Crying and eye health
Tears not only provide emotional relief, but also play a critical role in our eye health. The eyes are vulnerable to external factors, and tears are an important element that strengthens this defense. Thanks to the protective effects of tears, our eyes become more resistant to dust, dirt, and microbes. In addition, the process of shedding tears provides a kind of relaxation in the body, corrects hormonal imbalances, and creates a healthier psychological state.
Crying is a natural response of our body and fulfills an important function that supports both psychological and physical healing. It helps both emotional relaxation and protects our eye health. Tears are a unique liquid that strengthens our body's defenses against the outside world, balances our mood and helps maintain chemical balance. Remember, crying can sometimes be the healthiest response.