Crying can lead to puffy eyes, which may make a person feel worse. One tip is to apply a cool compress, possibly with a few drops of witch hazel. Other options include using an eye roller and making dietary changes for a longer term reduction in puffiness.
Tears helps keep the eyes comfortable and moist. It also washes out dust and debris. There are different types of tears, including emotional ones that can lead to puffy eyes.
This article will discuss home remedies to reduce the appearance of puffy eyes from crying. It will also provide some tips on how to manage flushing and dryness.
The eyes are always producing a certain amount of tears.
Tear fluid, which originates from the lacrimal gland, flows over the surface of the eye and drains out of the corners of the eyelids. Traveling through the tear ducts, the tears then empty through the nasal cavities.
Tears protect the surface of the eye and help remove debris from the eye.
There are three different types of tears:
- Basal tears: These are the basic, functional tears that are always in the eye. Basal tears lubricate and protect the cornea, while keeping away dirt and debris.
- Reflex tears: These tears respond to irritation, such as foreign bodies, smoke, and onion scents. The eyes produce more reflex tears than basal tears, and they contain antibodies that help fight bacteria.
- Emotional tears: Strong feelings can trigger emotional tears. Emotional tears relate to attachment, physical pain, empathy, exhaustion, or compassion.
When a person cries with emotion, they can produce more tears than the lacrimal drainage system can cope with. This causes the tears to run out of the eyes and sometimes the nose.
Tissue around the eyes can then reabsorb the tears, making the area appear puffy.
The blood vessels dilate when a person cries, hence the flushing or discoloration that appears around the eyes.
Although many of the tips for reducing puffiness also apply to treating flushing and discoloration, there are specific color-reducing eye drops available to purchase. Eye serums and creams are also available.
The tears contain oil, water, and mucus, and each element acts to protect and nourish the eye. Excess tears flow into small drainage ducts in the eyelids, but when these elements become unbalanced, dry eyes can occur.
Dry eye treatments include over-the-counter artificial tear solutions, which can also be preservative-free.
While at home, remember to blink regularly, especially when working on a computer for an extended period of time. Wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight can offer further protection.
There are many home remedies that can reduce eye puffiness after crying, but it can be a case of trial and error to find the right method.
If the puffiness continues for an extended period of time, it might be worth seeing a doctor for advice.
Performing regular skin care routines and eating a healthful diet are the best steps for general eye care.