könnycsepp

Könnycsepp, which translates to "tear" in English, refers to the fluid secreted by the lacrimal glands. This fluid is crucial for maintaining the health and comfort of the eye. Tears serve multiple functions, including lubrication, cleansing, and protection. They keep the surface of the eye moist, preventing dryness and irritation. The constant blinking action spreads tears across the cornea, removing debris and potential irritants like dust and foreign particles.

The composition of tears is complex, consisting primarily of water, electrolytes, proteins, and lipids. These components work together to form a stable tear film. This film has three layers: an outer lipid layer that prevents evaporation, a middle aqueous layer that provides moisture and nutrients, and an inner mucin layer that helps the tear film adhere to the eye's surface.

Tears are also produced in response to emotional stimuli, a phenomenon commonly referred to as crying. While emotional tears share many of the same components as basal tears (those produced for lubrication), they may also contain stress hormones and other substances. Reflex tears are produced in larger quantities to flush out irritants such as onion fumes or smoke. Disruptions in tear production or quality can lead to dry eye syndrome, a condition characterized by discomfort, redness, and blurred vision.