Answered by SecondMedic Expert
Otolaryngologist · Ear Nose Throat
Verified
The tears that flow from our eyes when we cry contain a mixture of water, oils, and proteins. The oil and protein components are what cause the nose to block up and/or run.
The oil is produced by the meibomian glands, which are located in the eyelids. The oils help to keep the tears from evaporating too quickly. The proteins are produced by the lacrimal gland, which is located above the outer corner of the eye. These proteins help to make the tears thicker and less likely to evaporate.
