Blood-tinged eye discharge contains streaks or spots of blood mixed with mucus or tears. It indicates surface fragility or more significant inflammation.
Causes
Severe conjunctivitis, trauma, or vigorous rubbing can break small surface vessels and tint discharge with blood. Ulcerative blepharitis, conjunctival lesions, and post‑surgical healing sites may also bleed slightly into tears.
- Contact lens-related abrasions or infections can produce blood-stained mucus
- Tumours or vascular malformations of the conjunctiva occasionally present with bloody discharge
- Bleeding disorders and anticoagulant therapy increase the likelihood of blood-tinged secretions
- Significant pain or vision change raises concern for corneal ulcer or deeper injury
Clinical Response
Any new or persistent blood-tinged discharge should be assessed to identify the bleeding source. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve infection control, cessation of trauma, or further investigation of lesions.
- Avoid rubbing or manipulating the eye
- Report blood-thinning medication use to the clinician
- Urgent review is needed if blood staining follows chemical or high-impact trauma
- Biopsy may be required for suspicious conjunctival growths
