Crying while sleeping

Feb 23, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Tearing during sleep may be due to physiological reasons, emotional excitement, or excessive sadness, which can stimulate the lacrimal glands and lead to the above condition; this usually resolves gradually without special treatment. Trauma causing nasolacrimal duct narrowing can prevent proper drainage of tears and may require surgical intervention. Incomplete eyelid closure can result in tears spilling out of the eyes; artificial tears are recommended to relieve symptoms, and corrective plastic surgery may also be considered.

Tearing during sleep may be due to physiological or pathological reasons, such as nasolacrimal duct stenosis or incomplete eyelid closure. It is recommended to treat according to the underlying cause.

1. Physiological Causes

If a person experiences strong emotions or excessive sadness before sleeping, the lacrimal glands may become stimulated, leading to tearing during sleep. This condition usually resolves gradually on its own and does not require specific treatment. However, it is advisable to regulate daily emotional states and avoid excessive sadness.

2. Pathological Causes

1) Nasolacrimal Duct Stenosis

If eye trauma causes narrowing of the nasolacrimal duct, tears may not drain properly. The eye may also produce a defensive response, resulting in tearing during sleep. Treatment typically follows medical advice and may involve surgical procedures such as dacryocystorhinostomy.

2) Incomplete Eyelid Closure

Incomplete eyelid closure can expose the conjunctiva to air for prolonged periods, causing overproduction of tears and subsequent overflow from the eyes. It is recommended to use artificial tears as directed by a physician to lubricate the eyes and relieve symptoms. If symptoms persist, corrective procedures such as Z-plasty, V-Y plasty, or other plastic surgery techniques may be considered.

In addition, conditions such as conjunctivitis may also cause tearing during sleep. In such cases, medication prescribed by a doctor is typically effective for treatment.


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