What Causes Yellow Tears? The Viral TikTok Video Explained

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The surprising reason behind this strange phenomenon
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You might have seen the viral TikTok video of a woman crying bright, highlighter-yellow tears after an eye exam. But what exactly causes this strange phenomenon? If you’re looking for the answers to these questions, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll go over what likely caused the yellow tears in this TikToker’s case, and we’ll also cover some alternative explanations for discolored tears. Keep reading for everything you need to know!

What does it mean when you cry yellow tears?

Most of the time, bright yellow tears occur after someone has an eye exam with a fluorescein eye stain test. Fluorescein is an orange-colored dye that helps your eye doctor see any foreign bodies or damage to the surface of your eye. If you cry soon after the test, the dye can make your tears look bright yellow.

Section 1 of 3:

What causes bright yellow tears?

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  1. In 2024, TikTok user ⭐️STARGIRL⭐️ posted a viral video of herself crying bright yellow tears after an eye exam. In response to questions about what caused this, popular TikTok physician Dr. Rubin posted a video explaining that the woman likely had a fluorescein eye stain. Fluorescein is a potent orange dye, so if someone cried directly afterward, their tears could appear bright yellow. [1]
    • During this test, an eye doctor touches your eyes with a piece of blotting paper that has the dye on it, then they ask you to blink. This spreads the dye around the surface of your eyes.
    • Next, the doctor shines a blue light onto your eyes. The combination of the dye and the blue light allows your doctor to see any foreign objects or damage to your cornea, which appear green. [2]
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Section 2 of 3:

Other Causes of Discolored Tears

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  1. If your tears look slightly yellow but you haven’t had a fluorescein test, it could be a sign of an infection or medical issue. For example, conjunctivitis (pink eye) , blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), and styes (infected oil glands on your eyelid) can cause yellow or green-colored discharge. In these cases, the discoloration is likely due to pus. [3]
    • If you notice yellowish tears or discharge in your eyes, make an appointment with your doctor. They’ll be able to figure out the cause and treat any infection you might have. [4]
Section 3 of 3:

Eye Health Resources

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  1. Check out these helpful resources:
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      References

      1. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003845.htm
      2. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003845.htm
      3. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/eye-discharge
      4. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/eye-discharge

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