Experiencing a burning sensation in your eyes when tears flow can be an uncomfortable and sometimes alarming experience. While often temporary and harmless, burning tears can also signal an underlying issue that may require attention. Understanding the reasons helps discern when it is a normal physiological response and when it might indicate a more significant concern. This article explores the science of tears and common factors that cause them to burn.
The Science of Tears
Tears are complex, serving multiple functions to maintain eye health. They consist of three primary layers: an outer oily, a middle watery, and an inner mucous layer. The oily layer, from meibomian glands, prevents rapid evaporation and ensures a smooth surface for clear vision. The aqueous layer, the thickest, hydrates the eye, contains proteins and nutrients, and includes antibacterial enzymes and antibodies to protect against infection. The innermost mucous layer, from goblet cells, helps spread tears evenly and ensures proper adhesion.
The body produces three types of tears: basal, reflex, and emotional. Basal tears continuously lubricate the eyes and keep them clear of dust. Reflex tears flush out irritants like smoke or foreign bodies. Emotional tears, triggered by strong feelings, contain higher concentrations of stress hormones and other biochemicals.
Common Causes of Burning Tears
Tears can burn for several common, benign reasons. Intense crying, especially emotional tears, can lead to a burning sensation. Emotional tears have a different chemical composition, including higher levels of stress hormones and proteins, which can cause temporary discomfort or an increased salt content.
Environmental irritants are another frequent cause of burning tears. Substances like smoke, dust, pollution, or chemical fumes can trigger reflex tears to wash away irritants. The irritation, combined with the body’s natural response, can result in a burning feeling. Temporary eye strain, often from prolonged screen use, can also cause a burning sensation. Mild allergies, from allergens like pollen or pet dander, can lead to redness, itching, and a burning feeling as the body releases histamine.
When Burning Tears Indicate a Problem
While often harmless, burning tears can signal an underlying health issue. Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to insufficient lubrication. This imbalance can cause persistent burning, stinging, and a gritty sensation.
Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or blepharitis, cause burning tears. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye, and can result from viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms include redness, discharge, itching, and a burning sensation.
Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, can cause burning, itching, and crusting around the eyelashes, due to bacterial overgrowth or blocked oil glands. Chemical exposure, even from household products, can cause severe irritation and burning. Corneal abrasions, scratches on the clear front surface of the eye, can also result in pain and a burning sensation.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Seek medical attention for burning tears if the sensation is persistent, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Warning signs include severe pain, vision changes like blurriness, or thick, yellow, or green eye discharge. Redness that does not subside, increased light sensitivity, or a feeling that something is constantly in the eye also warrant professional evaluation. An eye care professional can conduct a thorough examination, diagnose the cause, and recommend treatment options.