Why Do We Need Tears?

Tears are made up of three layers which include oil, water, and mucus. Each component protects and nourishes the front layer of the eye. They lubricate, protect and sustain the cornea of the eye. Tears are produced by several glands in and around the eyelids. Lacrimal glands, which are located above the eye, produce tears every time we blink. Whether we cry or not, tears are always there in our eyes. Reflex tears can often save us when the eyes have been rushed by such substances as fumes, onions, or smoke.

Crying is a normal response humans have to a span of emotions, like sadness, frustration, grief, and even joy. Humans produce three types of tears, first is Basal tears in which the tear ducts constantly secrete these tears, which are a protein-rich antibacterial liquid that aids to maintain the eyes moist at any moment a person blinks. Dry eyes is a condition in which a person doesn’t have sufficient quality tears to lubricate and maintain the eye. Tears are necessary for keeping up the health of the front layer of the eye and for providing clear vision. Basal tears, which are released every time a person blinks, aids to keep the eyes moist that prevent the mucous membranes from drying out. National Eye Institute explains that the lubricating result of basal tears aids us to see more clearly because when the membranes dry out, your vision can become blurry. Second is the Reflex tears and these are tears precipitates by irritants such as wind, smoke, or onions and are released to remove these irritants and shield the eye. Finally the Emotional tears. Humans shed tears in response to a span of emotions. These tears carry a higher level of stress hormones than the other types of tears aforementioned.