Why Do Eyes Burn When You Cry?

When you cry because you are sad or happy, your eyes might start to feel hot and stingy. This happens because the water coming out of your eyes is a bit different from the normal watering that keeps them moist.

Your eyes have tiny sensors called trigeminus nerves. These sensors act like security guards. When you cry from emotion, the liquid has more chemicals in it. The sensors notice these new chemicals and send a "stingy" signal to your brain.

It is similar to when you peel an onion or get soap in your eye. The body is just being very careful! The salt in your tears makes the skin around your eyes feel tight too. Soon, the water washes everything away, and the burning stops.