A sudden red spot on the white of the eye can be alarming. While its appearance might suggest a serious injury, this common occurrence, often referred to as a burst blood vessel, is generally harmless. It typically resolves on its own, causing no pain or vision changes, despite its dramatic look.
Understanding a Burst Blood Vessel in the Eye
A burst blood vessel in the eye is medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This condition presents as a bright red, flat patch on the white part of the eye, similar to a bruise on the skin. It happens when one of the tiny, delicate blood vessels located just beneath the conjunctiva breaks. The conjunctiva is a clear, thin membrane that covers the white of the eye. Because this membrane is transparent, the blood becomes trapped and highly visible, creating the stark red appearance.
Common Reasons for a Burst Blood Vessel
The most frequent causes of a subconjunctival hemorrhage involve sudden increases in pressure within the head or neck. Everyday actions such as violent coughing, powerful sneezing, or straining during vomiting can lead to a broken blood vessel. Similarly, heavy lifting or constipation, which can involve significant straining, may also contribute to this condition. Even minor trauma to the eye, like rubbing it vigorously or a gentle poke, can rupture these fragile vessels.
Sudden spikes in blood pressure, which might occur during intense physical exercise, can also be a factor. Certain medications, particularly blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin, can increase the likelihood of bleeding, making burst blood vessels more common. Eye surgery, such as LASIK, can result in a subconjunctival hemorrhage due to the manipulation of the eye’s surface. Sometimes, a burst blood vessel can appear spontaneously without any identifiable cause.
When to See a Doctor and What to Expect
While most burst blood vessels in the eye are benign and resolve without intervention, certain signs warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if the hemorrhage is accompanied by pain, changes in vision such as blurriness or double vision, or discharge from the eye. A doctor should also be seen if the condition follows a significant eye injury or if you experience recurrent hemorrhages without a clear cause. Other concerning symptoms include unexplained bruising elsewhere on the body or persistent headaches alongside the eye bleed.
In most cases, a subconjunctival hemorrhage requires no specific treatment as the blood is naturally reabsorbed by the body. This healing process usually takes about one to two weeks, though larger spots may take slightly longer. As the blood clears, the red patch may change color, transitioning to orange or yellow before disappearing completely, similar to a fading bruise. Artificial tears can provide comfort if there is a mild scratchy sensation, but they do not accelerate healing. Avoid rubbing the eye during this time.