Yes, eyes can tear blood. This condition is known as hemolacria or bloody epiphora.
What is Hemolacria?
Hemolacria is the medical term for tears that contain blood. It's not a common occurrence, but it is a recognized condition. The presence of blood in tears can be alarming, but it doesn't always indicate a serious underlying issue.
Causes of Hemolacria
Multiple disorders can lead to hemolacria. Some of the potential causes include:
- Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye) can cause small blood vessels to rupture.
- Eye Injury: Trauma to the eye can cause blood to mix with tears.
- Foreign Bodies: Objects in the eye can irritate and potentially cause bleeding.
- Nasal Problems: In rare cases, issues in the nasal passages can lead to blood in tears.
- Tumors: Growths near the eye or in the tear ducts may cause hemolacria.
- Blood Disorders: Certain bleeding disorders may also contribute to the condition.
- Spontaneous Hemolacria: In some instances, the cause of bloody tears is never identified, termed spontaneous hemolacria.
Symptoms of Hemolacria
The most prominent symptom of hemolacria is the appearance of blood in tears. Other symptoms may include:
- Eye irritation or discomfort.
- Redness of the eye.
- Swelling around the eye.
- Pain
Diagnosis and Treatment
A healthcare professional can diagnose hemolacria by performing a thorough eye exam and evaluating any associated symptoms. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
| Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Conjunctivitis | Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops |
| Eye Injury | Rest, cold compresses, and possibly pain medication |
| Foreign Bodies | Removal of the foreign object, potentially with antibiotics |
| Nasal Problems | Treatment of the underlying nasal condition |
| Tumors | Surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy |
| Blood Disorders | Management of the underlying blood disorder, including medication or blood products |
| Spontaneous Hemolacria | Observation, monitoring and symptomatic relief |
When to Seek Medical Help
It is always recommended to seek medical attention when experiencing bloody tears. While the cause may be minor, it's crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
