Bright red patches in your eye can be alarming, but in most cases, they’re harmless. This condition, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when tiny blood vessels beneath the eye’s surface break. While visually striking, it typically doesn’t affect vision and often resolves on its own. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment can alleviate concerns and help prevent future occurrences.
Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
A subconjunctival hemorrhage results from broken blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of your eye (sclera). When these vessels rupture, blood becomes trapped beneath the conjunctiva, creating a bright red patch. Although it looks concerning, the blood itself doesn’t interfere with vision or cause pain.
A man looking to the right, allowing broken blood vessels in his left eye to be visible as he suffers from Subconjunctival Hemorrhages
Common Causes of Eye Blood Vessel Rupture
Several factors can cause blood vessels in the eye to break. These include:
- Forceful Coughing or Sneezing: The pressure from these actions can strain and rupture delicate eye vessels.
- Vomiting or Dry Heaving: Similar to coughing, the strain from vomiting can lead to broken blood vessels.
- Straining During Physical Activity: Intense exercise, especially weightlifting, can increase pressure in the head and eyes.
- Rubbing Eyes Vigorously: Excessive rubbing can irritate and damage the conjunctiva and its blood vessels.
- Eye Injury or Trauma: Direct trauma to the eye can cause blood vessel breakage.
- Recent Eye Surgery: Surgical procedures can sometimes result in temporary blood vessel fragility.
Certain medical conditions and medications can also increase the risk:
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Elevated blood pressure puts extra stress on blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture.
- Diabetes: This condition can weaken blood vessels over time.
- Blood Clotting Disorders: These disorders can affect the body’s ability to form clots, potentially leading to bleeding.
- Blood Thinners: Medications like aspirin can thin the blood and increase the likelihood of bleeding.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The primary symptom of a subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red patch on the sclera. Typically, there’s no pain or vision change. Mild itching in the affected eye might occur. If you experience pain, vision changes, or discharge, consult a doctor immediately.
Healing and Prevention
Most subconjunctival hemorrhages heal naturally within one to two weeks as the blood is reabsorbed. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate any itching. While it’s not always possible to prevent them, avoiding excessive eye rubbing and managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure can reduce the risk.
Recurring Subconjunctival Hemorrhages: Underlying Causes
Frequent occurrences of subconjunctival hemorrhage may indicate an underlying issue. These include:
- Improper Contact Lens Use: Incorrect insertion techniques or using tools like tweezers can damage eye vessels. Always follow your eye doctor’s instructions for contact lens care.
- Vascular Diseases: Conditions like uncontrolled hypertension and arteriosclerosis weaken blood vessels, increasing their susceptibility to rupture.
- Conjunctivochalasis: This age-related condition involves a loosening of the conjunctiva, making it more prone to tearing and bleeding.
- Ocular Adnexal Tumors: In rare cases, recurring hemorrhages can be an early sign of an eye tumor.
Differentiating from Other Eye Conditions
Redness in the eye can be caused by other conditions, including:
-
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This inflammation of the conjunctiva causes redness, itching, discharge, and watery eyes.
-
Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis): Allergic reactions can cause itchy, red eyes, along with sneezing, runny nose, and congestion.
-
Iritis (Anterior Uveitis): Inflammation of the iris causes redness, pain, light sensitivity, and potentially blurred vision.
-
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea results in redness, pain, tearing, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a doctor if:
- You experience recurring subconjunctival hemorrhages.
- You have pain or vision changes associated with the redness.
- The redness doesn’t improve within two to three weeks.
- You have any concerns about your eye health.
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and detecting any potential problems early.
