The lacrimal bone, a small facial bone, is responsible for collecting tears. Located at the front inner corner of the eye socket, it helps form the nasolacrimal canal, a passageway for tears. A depression on the anterior inferior portion of the lacrimal bone, known as the lacrimal fossa, houses the membranous lacrimal sac. During excessive lacrimation, tears from the lacrimal glands collect in this sac.
Here's how it works:
- Lacrimal glands: These glands produce tears, which lubricate the eye and provide protection.
- Lacrimal sac: Tears drain into this sac via the lacrimal canaliculi, small tubes that connect the eyes to the sac.
- Nasolacrimal canal: The lacrimal sac empties into this canal, which carries tears into the nasal cavity.
This process ensures that excess tears are removed from the eye, preventing overflow.
