How tears are made?

Tears are primarily made up of water, but they also contain various substances such as electrolytes, proteins, antibodies, and lipids. The process of tear production involves several stages:

1. Basal Tear Production: The lacrimal gland, located above each eye, continuously produces a small amount of tears to lubricate the surface of the eye. These tears spread across the eye with each blink, keeping the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) moist and healthy.

2. Reflex Tears: When the eye is irritated by foreign particles, smoke, or other stimuli, the nervous system triggers the production of reflex tears. This is a protective mechanism to wash away the irritating substance and prevent damage to the eye.

3. Emotional Tears: Emotional tears are produced in response to strong emotions, such as sadness, joy, anger, or stress. These tears contain higher levels of hormones and neurotransmitters compared to basal and reflex tears.

The process of tear production can be summarized as follows:

- The lacrimal gland secretes tears into the upper eyelid.

- The tears flow across the surface of the eye, washing away foreign particles and lubricating the cornea.

- Excess tears drain into small drainage ducts in the inner corners of the eyelids, called the puncta.

- The tears flow through these ducts into the tear sac, located in the inner corner of the eye.

- From the tear sac, the tears drain into the nasal cavity through the nasolacrimal duct, which connects the eye to the nose.

In some cases, tears may overflow the drainage system and spill onto the cheeks, which we commonly experience as crying. Overall, the production of tears is essential for maintaining eye health and providing a protective barrier against external factors.