Crying Blood

Crying Blood (also known as haemolacria) is a rare medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in the tears. This phenomenon can be alarming and may be indicative of various underlying health issues.

Causes

Haemolacria can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infections: Certain infections can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the tear ducts.
• Trauma: Physical injury to the eye or surrounding structures can result in blood mixing with tears.
• Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors in the lacrimal gland or conjunctiva can cause haemolacria.
• Systemic diseases: Conditions such as hypertension, bleeding disorders, and autoimmune diseases can manifest as haemolacria.
• Hormonal changes: In rare cases, hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstruation, can lead to haemolacria.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of haemolacria is the presence of blood in the tears. This can range from a few streaks of blood to a more pronounced red discoloration of the tears. Other associated symptoms may include:

• Eye pain
• Swelling around the eyes
• Redness of the eyes
• Blurred vision

Diagnosis

Diagnosing haemolacria involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for underlying systemic conditions
• Imaging studies such as CT scan or MRI to identify any structural abnormalities
• Biopsy of any suspicious growths or tumors

Treatment

Treatment of haemolacria depends on the underlying cause. Possible treatments include:

• Antibiotics for infections
• Surgery to remove tumors or repair damaged structures
• Medications to manage systemic diseases
• Hormonal therapy in cases related to hormonal changes

Prognosis

The prognosis for haemolacria varies depending on the underlying cause. In many cases, treating the root cause can resolve the symptoms. However, ongoing medical management may be necessary for chronic conditions.

See also

• Epistaxis
• Hematuria
• Lacrimal apparatus
• Ophthalmology