Why do we cry?
We cry to protect our eyes and to express emotions. Emotional tears may help release stress and signal to others that we need comfort or support.
There are three types of tears. Basal tears constantly keep the eyes moist and protected. Reflex tears wash away irritants such as smoke, dust or onion fumes. Emotional tears are triggered by strong feelings like sadness, joy or frustration, and they are unique to humans.
Tears are made by lacrimal glands above the eyes and drain through small ducts into the nose, which is why crying makes your nose run. When we cry from emotion, brain regions linked to feelings activate the nerves that control the tear glands.
Does crying help?
Many people say they feel better after a good cry. Research suggests the effect may come mainly from comfort and support from others, and from the body calming down afterward. Crying also communicates distress without words, which may have helped our ancestors get help from their group.
Did You Know?
Babies do not produce emotional tears at birth. Most newborns cry without tears for the first few weeks of life.
This answer is general information, not medical advice. For a personal health question, talk to a doctor.