The reason why your nose gets runny when you are crying is because the tears from the eyes drain into the nose

The Connection Between Crying and a Runny Nose: Tears Draining into the Nose

Crying is a natural emotional response that we all experience from time to time. It could be triggered by happiness, sadness, frustration, or even laughter. While shedding tears may bring temporary relief, it often leaves us dealing with a runny nose. Have you ever wondered why your nose gets congested and drips when you cry? The answer lies in the intricate connection between our eyes and nose.

When we cry, tears are produced by the lacrimal glands located above our eyes. These glands are responsible for producing tears that help keep our eyes lubricated and protected. These tears then flow down the surface of our eyes to the inner corners. From there, they enter the nasolacrimal ducts, which are tiny channels that connect the eyes to the nose.

Now, you might be wondering why tears drain into the nose and not elsewhere. Well, the nasolacrimal ducts serve an essential purpose by providing a pathway for tears to exit the eyes. This connection plays a vital role in maintaining eye health. However, it also means that when we cry, a portion of the tears that overflow from our eyes drains into the nose through these ducts.

The tears that enter the nose can cause a runny nose or nasal congestion. The excessive tears mix with mucus in the nasal cavity, leading to increased fluid production and a runny nose. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as “emotional rhinorrhea” and can be particularly noticeable when crying intensely or for an extended period.

It’s important to note that while a runny nose when crying is a common occurrence, it is not a cause for concern in most cases. It is simply a natural response of the body to the overflow of tears. However, if you frequently experience a persistently runny nose unrelated to crying or it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

To alleviate a runny nose caused by crying, some simple remedies may help. Gently blowing your nose or using a tissue to wipe away the excess fluid can provide temporary relief. Applying a warm compress to your nose or using saline nasal sprays may also help to alleviate congestion and soothe the nasal passages.

In conclusion, the reason why your nose gets runny when you cry is due to tears from the eyes draining into the nose through the nasolacrimal ducts. This natural connection between the eyes and nose allows for effective tear drainage but can lead to a temporary runny nose during moments of crying. Understanding this process can help you better appreciate the intricacies of our body’s interconnected systems.

Sources:

• GK Series - Runny Nose and Crying
• ePainAssist - What Causes Watery Eyes and Runny Nose