Eyes often sting or burn during or after crying. This sensation can range from mild irritation to significant discomfort. Understanding the various factors that contribute to this burning feeling can help manage and alleviate symptoms. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and offers guidance for relief.
Why Tears Can Cause a Burning Sensation
Tears are not simply saltwater; they are a complex fluid produced by the lacrimal glands, composed of water, electrolytes, proteins, lipids, and mucins. Basal tears continuously lubricate the eye, while reflex tears flush out irritants. Emotional tears, produced in response to strong feelings, have a distinct composition.
Emotional tears contain higher concentrations of stress hormones, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol, as well as natural painkillers like leucine enkephalin and endorphins. They also contain more manganese, an element associated with stress relief. While all tears contain salts like sodium chloride and potassium chloride, the concentration and specific proteins in emotional tears may contribute to the burning sensation, especially if eyes are already sensitive or dry. The pH of tears is generally around 7.4, similar to blood plasma, but shifts in pH or osmolarity (salt concentration) during prolonged crying can cause irritation.
Other Factors Contributing to Eye Burning
Beyond tear composition, various other conditions can cause a burning sensation in the eyes during crying. Dry eye syndrome is a common culprit, occurring when eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms include a gritty, scratchy, or burning sensation, redness, and sometimes excessive watering as the eye tries to compensate for dryness.
Allergies can also trigger eye burning, especially when airborne allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander come into contact with the eyes. This can lead to allergic conjunctivitis, characterized by itchy, red, watery, and burning eyes, often with swollen eyelids. Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, can cause burning, itching, redness, and crusting around the eyelashes. This inflammation is often due to bacterial overgrowth or clogged oil glands.
Infections like conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, can also cause burning eyes. Viral conjunctivitis often presents with burning, redness, and watery discharge, while bacterial conjunctivitis may involve a thicker, pus-like discharge with pain and swelling. Contact lens use can also lead to burning eyes if lenses are not properly cleaned, worn too long, or if the fit is incorrect. Allergies to contact lens solutions or accumulation of debris on the lenses can also contribute to irritation.
Environmental irritants, such as smoke, air pollution, chlorine, or strong fumes from household cleaners, can directly irritate the eyes and cause a burning sensation. Low humidity or dry air can also lead to eye dryness and burning. Certain makeup and skincare products can cause irritation if they contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or preservatives that migrate into the eyes. Ingredients like parabens, formaldehyde, and certain waxes can disrupt the tear film and clog glands, leading to dry eye symptoms or inflammation.
When to Consult a Doctor
While temporary eye irritation from crying is common, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Consult an eye doctor if the burning sensation persists for more than a day or two, is severe, or interferes with daily activities. Persistent pain, significant eye redness, or a discharge from the eye (especially if thick, yellow, or green) are concerning signs.
Changes in vision, such as blurriness or sensitivity to light, indicate a need for evaluation. If you experience double vision, eye floaters, or flashes of light alongside burning eyes, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can signal a more serious underlying condition requiring specific diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications or lasting damage to your eyes.
Soothing and Preventing Eye Discomfort
To alleviate immediate discomfort after crying, apply a cool compress to your closed eyelids to reduce swelling and soothe irritation. A clean washcloth soaked in cool water and gently placed over the eyes for several minutes provides relief. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, often called artificial tears, can rehydrate the eye surface and ease dryness and burning sensations. Choose preservative-free drops, especially for frequent use.
Practicing good eye hygiene is also beneficial for long-term prevention. This includes gently cleaning your eyelids with warm water and a mild, diluted cleanser, particularly if you experience conditions like blepharitis. Staying adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can support overall tear production and eye moisture. Avoiding known irritants, such as cigarette smoke, strong chemical fumes, or specific allergens, can reduce the likelihood of eye burning. Proper contact lens care, including regular cleaning, appropriate wear time, and replacing lenses as recommended, minimizes irritation and infection risks.