Ocular discomfort, characterized by a stinging or burning sensation, frequently manifests following episodes of heightened emotional expression involving lacrimation. This phenomenon arises from a confluence of physiological factors activated during the emotional and physical act of shedding tears.
Understanding the biological processes behind tear production and drainage is fundamental to grasping the origins of this post-lachrymal irritation. Tears serve vital functions, including lubrication, protection, and emotional release. The composition of tears changes depending on their purpose, which affects the ocular surface. Historically, while the connection between tears and emotion has been recognized for centuries, the specific biochemical reasons for resultant discomfort have only recently become clearer.