page_title: Tears
section_title: Types
hierarchical_section_title: Tears / Physiology / Types
caption_attribution_description: A toddler girl crying
context_page_description: Tears are a clear liquid secreted by the lacrimal glands found in the eyes of all land mammals. Their functions include lubricating the eyes, removing irritants, and aiding the immune system. Tears also occur as a part of the body's natural pain response. Humans are the only mammals known to produce tears as part of an emotional response, such as out of joy or grief. Tears have symbolic significance among humans. Emotional secretion of tears may serve a biological function by excreting stress-inducing hormones built up through times of emotional distress. Tears are made up of water, electrolytes, proteins, lipids, and mucins that form layers on the surface of eyes. The different types of tears—basal, reflex, and emotional—vary significantly in composition.
context_section_description: There are three basic types of tears: basal, reflex and emotional.
caption: A toddler producing tears due to emotional stress or pain
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