Have you ever felt the need to hold back your tears, worried about what others might think? Well, it’s time to debunk the misconceptions about crying and embrace its benefits for your eye health!
In this blog post, we discuss how shedding a tear can benefit your eyes. So, grab a tissue and get ready to learn why it’s totally okay to let those tears flow.
Natural Eye Cleansing
Our eyes must stay clean and moist to function properly, and tears are crucial in maintaining this balance. There are three types of tears — basal, reflex and emotional. Basal tears are continuously produced to keep the eye lubricated and nourished, reflex tears flush out irritants, and emotional tears occur due to strong feelings. All these tears work together to cleanse, lubricate and protect our eyes from dust, debris and other irritants.
Reducing Eye Strain
Eye strain is often caused by excessive screen time, reading or exposure to bright lights. One common symptom of eye strain is dry eyes, which can lead to discomfort and even pain. Crying can help alleviate eye strain by moisturizing the eyes and providing a much-needed break from these activities. So, the next time you’re experiencing eye strain, don’t be afraid to let those tears flow and give your eyes the relief they need.
Strengthening the Immune System
Did you know that your tears contain a powerful enzyme called lysozyme? This enzyme is capable of killing bacteria and protecting your eyes from infections. By crying, you boost your immune system and keep your eyes healthy. Tears also aid in flushing out harmful toxins, further contributing to better eye health.
Emotional Health Benefits
Apart from the physical benefits crying offers to your eyes, there’s no denying the emotional relief it can provide. Crying allows us to express our emotions, release pent-up stress and improve our overall mood. Research shows that crying can help reduce stress-related hormones, leading to a more relaxed and happier state of mind. This emotional release, in turn, promotes better eye health by reducing the strain and tension often experienced during high-stress situations.
When to Seek Professional Help
While crying can be beneficial to your eye health, excessively tearing up can be a sign of an underlying problem. Schedule an eye exam with an optometrist so they can check your eyes. If you notice any changes in your vision, eye pain, excessive dryness or other eye concerns, consult an eye doctor for a thorough evaluation.
Crying is not only a natural and essential human function, but it also provides numerous benefits for your eye health. From cleansing and lubricating the eyes to strengthening the immune system and reducing eye strain, there’s no doubt that a good cry can do wonders. Prioritize your optical care with Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic. Call us at (425) 771-8472 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.