Tears are complex fluids produced by the lacrimal glands, primarily composed of water, oil, and mucus. They lubricate the eye, protect it from irritants, and fight bacteria. Normally clear, yellow tears are unusual and can signal an underlying health issue.
Common Causes of Yellow Tearing
Systemic conditions, such as jaundice, are a significant reason for yellow tears. Jaundice occurs from excess bilirubin, a yellow-orange pigment formed during red blood cell breakdown. A healthy liver filters bilirubin for elimination. When the liver or bile ducts malfunction, bilirubin builds up, causing yellowish discoloration of the skin and eye whites (sclera). This bilirubin can also be detected in tear fluid, giving tears a yellow hue.
Ocular conditions can also lead to yellow tears, often due to discharge. Bacterial eye infections, like conjunctivitis (pink eye), can produce thick, sticky yellow or green discharge. This discharge consists of dead white blood cells and bacteria, mixing with tears to create the yellowish appearance. Dacryocystitis, an infection of the tear duct or drainage system, can also result in yellowish discharge. This condition often stems from a blocked tear duct, allowing bacteria to accumulate.
External factors can also temporarily color tears yellow. Fluorescein, an orange dye used during eye examinations to detect corneal abrasions or foreign bodies, can make tears appear bright yellow if applied recently. This water-soluble dye washes out with natural tears. Excessive oil production by the meibomian glands can also mix with tears, causing them to appear yellow and feel greasy.
Accompanying Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
When yellow tears are present, observe any other accompanying symptoms, as these provide clues about the underlying cause. For systemic conditions like jaundice, signs include yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (scleral icterus). High bilirubin levels can also cause abdominal pain, chills, fever, fatigue, or dark urine. In infants, jaundice may present with listlessness, difficulty waking, poor feeding, or a high-pitched cry.
For ocular conditions, yellow tears or discharge often accompany eye pain, redness, eyelid swelling, or a gritty sensation. Blurred vision or light sensitivity can also occur with eye infections. If dacryocystitis causes yellow tears, symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the inner corner of the eye near the nose, along with increased tearing.
It is important to seek medical attention if yellow tears are persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Immediate medical attention is recommended for sudden onset of severe eye pain, changes in vision, or systemic symptoms like fever and severe jaundice. A non-urgent doctor’s visit is advisable if yellow tears persist without other severe symptoms, as a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause. Self-diagnosis should be avoided, and professional medical advice is always recommended for eye-related issues.
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing the cause of yellow tears typically begins with a thorough physical examination and a detailed medical history. An eye examination allows the healthcare professional to inspect the eyes for signs of infection, inflammation, or structural issues. This may involve using specialized dyes, such as fluorescein, to highlight any abnormalities on the eye’s surface.
Further diagnostic steps can include blood tests, particularly if a systemic cause like jaundice is suspected. These tests can measure bilirubin levels and assess liver function, providing insights into the body’s ability to process and eliminate bilirubin. In cases of suspected infection, tear analysis might be performed to identify specific bacteria or viruses. Imaging studies may also be used if there is concern about blockages in the tear drainage system or other deeper issues.
Treatment for yellow tears is entirely dependent on the identified underlying cause. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, antibiotic eye drops or oral antibiotics are typically prescribed to eliminate the infection. For conditions related to liver dysfunction or high bilirubin, addressing the underlying liver issue is paramount, which may involve various medical interventions. If a foreign substance or dye is the cause, the tears will usually clear on their own as the substance is flushed out. In cases of blocked tear ducts, massage techniques or, in some instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore proper drainage.