A “popped blood vessel” in the eye, medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks just beneath the clear surface. This condition often appears more alarming than it is, presenting as a bright red patch. The conjunctiva, a transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye, contains numerous small, fragile blood vessels. When one ruptures, blood becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and the underlying white part of the eye (sclera), creating the visible red spot.
What You See
The most noticeable sign of a subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red patch on the white part of your eye. This redness can range from a small dot to an extensive area, sometimes making the underlying white sclera invisible. Despite its dramatic appearance, this condition is typically painless, causing only a mild scratchy sensation. A subconjunctival hemorrhage usually does not affect your vision; the blood remains on the surface, not involving the cornea or interior. The red spot may initially grow larger over 24 to 48 hours, then gradually change color to yellow or greenish as the body absorbs the blood, similar to a fading bruise.
Common Causes
Subconjunctival hemorrhages often result from actions that temporarily increase pressure in the head or eyes, leading to the rupture of small, delicate blood vessels in the conjunctiva. Common activities include violent coughing, powerful sneezing, straining during bowel movements, vomiting, or heavy lifting. Minor eye trauma is another frequent cause, such as vigorous eye rubbing or a foreign object injuring the eye. Sometimes, a subconjunctival hemorrhage can occur spontaneously without any obvious trigger. While often benign, the fragility of conjunctival vessels can increase with age and be influenced by underlying conditions like arteriosclerosis, systemic hypertension, and diabetes, making them more susceptible to rupture.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While typically harmless and self-resolving, certain symptoms warrant a medical evaluation; seek professional advice if the red patch does not improve within two weeks or persists beyond three weeks. Persistent pain, vision changes (such as blurriness or double vision), or eye discharge are also reasons for concern. Additional warning signs include increased sensitivity to light, recent eye trauma, or if redness extends to the iris. Recurrent hemorrhages without an obvious cause, or if they occur in both eyes simultaneously, also suggest the need for further investigation. Less common systemic causes, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia), or blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin), can make individuals more prone to these hemorrhages and require medical assessment.