29/03/2022
Crying bloody tears may seem like a fictional occurrence, but tears tinged with blood are an actual medical condition.
Referred to as haemolacria, crying bloody tears is a rare condition that causes a person to produce tears tinged with, or partially made of, blood.
In many cases, haemolacria is a symptom of another condition and is usually benign. However, if you begin to experience any instance of blood mixed with your tears, recurrent cases, or accompanying symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Cases of haemolacria have been attributed to a number of causes and conditions. Some of the more common include:
hormone changes
menstruation
inflammation
conjunctival injuries
trauma
blocked tear duct
high blood pressure
blood disorders, such as hemophilia
nosebleeds
pyogenic granuloma
melanoma
tumors
In some cases of haemolacria, there are no identifiable medical causes or explanation. As a result, it may be deemed a spontaneous symptom that usually resolves in time.
Haemolacria is usually fleeting, ending as quickly as it started. But if you begin to experience additional symptoms with bloody tears, schedule an appointment to see your doctor.
Prior to recommending treatment, your doctor will have to fully diagnose the underlying condition. To properly diagnose haemolacria, doctors may:
probe and irrigate the affected area of your eye
take cultures to identify any abnormalities
perform a nasal endoscopy
perform a CT scan of your sinuses
Effective treatment ultimately depends on the underlying cause. Often, bloody tears require no treatment. Your doctor might suggest a wait-and-see approach, but in more serious cases, your doctor may recommend:
medication or antibiotic eye drops to fight off infection
dilation and flushing for tear draining
stenting
surgery or reconstruction
Before deciding on a treatment plan, discuss options with your doctor. Surgery and other invasive procedures may only be required in more serious cases.
