What causes the headache, red nose and puffy lips when I cry?

Asked by tedibear (19399

) May 23rd, 2010

I’m looking for the physical causes of these things. When I cry so that it includes sobbing, I get all of these. What’s happening in my body that makes this happen?

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5 Answers

Your blood pressure goes up.

filmfann (52513

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It’s a combination of valsalva and vasodilation.

Rarebear (25192

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I’m going to hazard a guess and say that the blood vessels in your face dilate when you have a strong emotional reaction, causing the red nose and puffy lips. The headache could be caused by neck muscle tension. Don’t quote me on this or anything though, i’m likely wrong.

LocoLuke (1126

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Thanks all!

tedibear (19399

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Ha! I just wondered about that very thing!!! I also wonder if it is some sort of defense mechanism in your body…it thinks that it is getting attacked?

SundayKittens (5834

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