NEW YORK, El Sky News — Researchers announced this week that humans produce three different types of tears, each triggered by unique biological and emotional mechanisms. The discovery highlights how the eye responds differently to daily conditions such as irritation, protection, and emotional stress.
According to the research team, the first type, known as basal tears, constantly lubricates and protects the eyes. The second type, reflex tears, is released in response to irritants such as smoke, dust, or strong odors. The third type, emotional tears, is triggered by feelings such as sadness, joy, or overwhelming relief, and carries hormones associated with stress regulation.
Scientists explained that emotional tears contain higher levels of stress-related substances, including prolactin and cortisol. This composition helps the body stabilize mood after intense emotional moments, demonstrating that crying not only expresses emotion but may also serve a physiological purpose.
Experts say the findings offer new insight into how the human body manages emotion and stress. By understanding the variations in tear composition, researchers hope to further explore their potential role in mental health and stress recovery.
