If your eyes burn when you cry, it's often because of dry eye. Crying can actually worsen the discomfort associated with dry eyes.
The Link Between Crying and Burning Eyes
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Tears Evaporate Quickly: When you cry, your eyes produce tears to flush out irritants or express emotion. However, these tears can evaporate rapidly, leaving your eyes feeling even drier than before.
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Reduction of Existing Moisture: The process of crying can temporarily reduce the existing natural moisture on your eyes. This intensified dryness leads to that burning sensation.
Other Potential Causes
While dry eye is the most common reason, other factors could contribute to burning eyes when crying:
- Tear Composition: The composition of tears produced during emotional crying differs from the tears that normally lubricate your eyes. These emotional tears may contain irritants that cause a burning sensation.
- Sensitivity to Preservatives: If you use eye drops containing preservatives, you might experience burning if the preservatives irritate your eyes during crying.
- Underlying Eye Conditions: Certain underlying eye conditions, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), can make your eyes more sensitive and prone to burning when exposed to tears.
What Can You Do?
Here are some things you can try to alleviate the burning sensation:
- Use Artificial Tears: After crying, apply preservative-free artificial tears to rehydrate your eyes.
- Warm Compress: A warm compress can help stimulate tear production and relieve discomfort.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body, including your eyes, hydrated.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing your eyes can worsen irritation and dryness.
- Consult an Eye Doctor: If the burning persists or is accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., redness, pain, blurred vision), consult an eye doctor to rule out any underlying eye conditions.
