It is common for the nose to run when crying, and there are several reasons why this occurs. Understanding the science behind this phenomenon can help to explain why the nose runs when crying.

One reason the nose runs when crying is due to the production of tears. When the body experiences strong emotions, such as sadness or joy, it can produce tears. These tears are produced by the lacrimal gland, which is located above the outer corner of each eye. The tears are composed of a mixture of water, oil, and mucus, and they are designed to lubricate and protect the surface of the eye.

As the tears are produced, they flow down the face and over the nasal passages. The nasal passages are lined with tiny hairs called cilia, which help to filter out dirt and other particles. The tears that flow over the nasal passages can be caught by these cilia and transported to the nasal cavity, where they can be drained through the nostrils.

Another reason the nose may run when crying is due to nasal congestion. When the nasal passages become congested due to a cold, allergies, or other factors, the flow of air through the nasal passages is restricted. This can cause the mucus in the nasal passages to build up and become thicker, which can make it more