Introduction
Eyes are one of the most sensitive organs of the body. They do not just provide us with the ability to see. It also plays a major role in expressing our emotions. One tends to shed tears when feeling extremely sad or extremely happy. Have we ever thought about what would happen if we cried out tears filled with blood? Yes, it is a reasonable condition, but very rare. Few cases have been recorded worldwide. The cause of these bloody tears can be due to various factors, which will be discussed in detail in this article.
What Is Haemolacria?
Haemolacria is a rare condition that involves the production of bloody tears. It is usually caused by underlying medical conditions that may not be noticed until then. The tears will be mixed with blood. It can occur due to a condition, like the lacrimal sac, tear drainage system, conjunctiva, etc. The doctor will decide on diagnostic tests and treatment plans based on symptoms and patient history.
What Are the Various Medical Conditions That Cause Bloody Tears?
There are a lot of medical and bodily changes and conditions that cause the production of bloody tears. They are as follows:
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Hormonal changes are the most common cause of bloody tears. One of the common hormonal changes encountered to produce bloody tears is menstruation. Certain studies suggest that very few menstruating women are likely to produce bloody tears. It is usually very small amounts and does not significantly affect the quality of life.
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Injury to the conjunctival layer of the eyes is another important cause of bloody tears. Conjunctiva is the clear layer of the eyes, and it lines the white part of the eye. The conjunctival layer of the eye comprises blood vessels. In case of an infection, injury, or an infection to the conjunctiva, the blood vessels may get damaged and bleed. The blood oozing out of the conjunctival layer may get mixed up with the tears and may appear as bloody tears.
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The condition in which the nose bleeds is known as epistaxis. The lacrimal gland produces tears in the eyes. These tears drain through the tiny opening called the puncta present at the corner of the eyes. The tears will eventually drain into the lacrimal canal and drain through the nasal cavity (this explains why one experiences nasal congestion while crying). In case of an injury to the nose, a nose can bleed. This can move upwards through the nasolacrimal duct, presenting in the eyes as tears. This is another common reason for the production of bloody tears.
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Malignancy is a life-threatening condition. It can affect the lacrimal gland, sac, and conjunctiva. For example, a tumor in the parts mentioned above of the eye can result in bloody tears. This type of condition will need immediate medical attention.
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High blood pressure can affect a human being in various ways. Generally, if the blood pressure is higher than the normal range of 120/80 mm Hg and the patient undergoes a surgical procedure, the bleeding will be profuse. That is why blood pressure must be controlled while undergoing surgical procedures. Similarly, when blood pressure is high, the blood vessels along the conjunctival layer will break and start bleeding profusely. But this is a very rare condition, and it usually resolves when the blood pressure is brought back to normal range with the help of medications.
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Blood disorders like hemophilia and taking blood thinner medications like Aspirin and Heparin can cause bloody tears. Hemophilia is a condition characterized by the non-clotting nature of the blood due to the absence of certain essential clotting factors. This condition can rarely show up in the eyes, causing bloody tears. Patients taking blood thinners like Aspirin and Heparin can bleed profusely when injured.
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Haemolacria is a condition that can be encountered rarely, and it usually does not have any specific cause, and it resolves sometimes. However, when the bloody tears are accompanied by excruciating pain and such symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately. This is known as idiopathic causes.
What Tests Are Available to Diagnose the Conditions Causing Bloody Tears?
The following tests are the most preferred to diagnose bloody tears caused by various conditions and factors.
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Initially, an ophthalmologist will perform a probing test to examine the eyes.
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Culturing of the discharge from the puncta will be performed.
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In case of nose involvement, a nasal endoscopy will be advised.
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Dacryocystography is a test used to examine the lacrimal system. In this case, a contrasting pigment will be injected into the system to examine any obstructions in the lacrimal sac or lacrimal sac.
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In case of sinus involvement, a computed tomography scan (CT scan) of the sinuses will be advised.
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Cytological studies of the discharge from the puncta will be performed.
How to Treat Bloody Tears?
The treatment plan entirely depends on what is causing it. In the majority of cases, it may resolve and does not recur. But surgical intervention will be required to cure the condition in cases of malignancy. In case of high blood pressure causing it, the pressure has to be controlled with medications. Treating the underlying medical condition will help big time.
Conclusion
Bloody tears or Haemolacria is a rare condition but can cause panic in a person experiencing it. Thus, if one feels there is more to the bloody tears, it is good to seek a doctor’s care immediately.
