Why Do Yawns Make You Cry? The Surprising Reason Behind Tear Production

Have you ever noticed that you get tears in your eyes when you yawn? It’s a common phenomenon, and while it may seem strange, it actually has a scientific explanation.

Tears are produced by the lacrimal glands located above each eye and are responsible for lubricating and protecting the eye. While tears are typically produced in response to emotional stimuli, such as sadness or joy, they can also be produced as a result of physical stimuli.

One such physical stimuli is yawning. When you yawn, your body takes in a large breath of air, which can cause a change in pressure in the sinuses and the middle ear. This change in pressure can stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensation and movement.

The stimulation of the trigeminal nerve can cause tear production, which can lead to the tears that you experience while yawning. Additionally, the muscles around the eyes and the face can also contract during a yawn, which can put pressure on the lacrimal glands and further stimulate tear production.

It’s worth noting that not everyone experiences tears when they yawn. Some people may produce more tears than others, and the amount of tear production can vary based on individual factors such as age, gender, and overall health.

While the tears that you experience during a yawn may be a bit of an annoyance, they serve an important function in keeping the eyes lubricated and protected. So, the next time you find yourself tearing up while yawning, know that it’s just your body’s way of keeping your eyes healthy.

In conclusion, tears while yawning are a common occurrence that can be explained by the stimulation of the trigeminal nerve and pressure on the lacrimal glands. While they may seem odd, they are a natural response that serves an important purpose in maintaining eye health.