Crying is a natural human response to a variety of emotions, and while it’s generally associated with sadness, it can also be triggered by joy, pain, frustration, or even relief. One thing that many people notice when they cry is that their eyes can seem to change color. This is a common phenomenon, and it has a fascinating scientific explanation.
What Causes Our Eyes To Change Color When We Cry?
The phenomenon of eyes changing color when someone cries is primarily related to the way tears affect the blood vessels around the eyes. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening:
- Tears: When we cry, our tear ducts release a watery fluid that lubricates and cleanses the eyes. These tears contain a variety of substances, including salts, proteins, and hormones.
- Blood Vessels: The delicate blood vessels around the eyes dilate (expand) when they are exposed to the increased flow of tears. This dilation causes the blood vessels to become more prominent, making the white part of the eye appear redder.
- Light Scattering: The increased blood flow also changes the way light scatters through the eye. This scattering of light can lead to a perceived change in eye color, especially in individuals with lighter colored eyes.
How Does This Affect Eye Color Perception?
The exact change in eye color that someone experiences can vary depending on several factors:
- Original Eye Color: Individuals with lighter colored eyes, such as blue or green, are more likely to notice a change in color because the contrast between the iris and the surrounding area is greater.
- Intensity of Crying: The more intensely someone cries, the more tears are released, leading to greater dilation of the blood vessels and a more noticeable change in color.
- Individual Variation: There is also some individual variation in how easily the blood vessels around the eyes dilate. Some people are more prone to experiencing red or bloodshot eyes after crying than others.
Does Crying Actually Change Your Eye Color Permanently?
No, crying does not permanently change your eye color. The color change is temporary and will disappear as the blood vessels constrict back to their normal size. This typically happens within a few minutes or hours after the crying episode ends.
Expert Insight:
“While the change in eye color may seem dramatic, it’s important to remember that it’s a temporary phenomenon,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned ophthalmologist. “The eye color is determined by the amount of melanin pigment in the iris, and crying does not alter this pigment. The color change is merely an optical illusion caused by the way light interacts with the dilated blood vessels.”
Is There Anything I Can Do To Prevent My Eyes From Changing Color When I Cry?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to completely prevent your eyes from changing color when you cry. However, you can try a few things to minimize the effect:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep your body properly hydrated and can prevent the blood vessels around your eyes from becoming overly dilated.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing your eyes can irritate them and cause further dilation of the blood vessels. Try to avoid touching your eyes, especially after crying.
- Apply Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress to your eyes can help reduce inflammation and constrict the blood vessels.
FAQs:
Q: What if my eyes stay red after crying?
A: If your eyes remain red for more than a few hours, you may want to consult with a doctor or an ophthalmologist. This could be a sign of an underlying eye condition, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or an allergy.
Q: Can crying make my eyes more sensitive to light?
A: Yes, crying can temporarily make your eyes more sensitive to light. This is because the tears can wash away the protective layer of oil on the surface of the eye, leaving it more vulnerable to light.
Q: Is there a way to make my eyes look less red after crying?
A: Using eye drops that contain a vasoconstrictor, such as tetrahydrozoline, can help constrict the blood vessels in your eyes and reduce redness. However, overuse of these drops can be harmful, so it’s important to follow the directions on the label carefully.
Q: Is it normal for my eyes to feel dry after crying?
A: Yes, it’s common to experience dryness in the eyes after crying. This is because crying can wash away the natural oils that lubricate the eyes. Using lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness.
If you have any other concerns about your eyes, or if you notice any changes in your vision, it’s always best to consult with an eye doctor.
