A burst eye vessel, a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks beneath the clear surface of the eye. This common condition results in a bright red patch on the white part of the eye, which can appear alarming. Despite its striking appearance, it is usually harmless. The blood is contained on the eye’s surface, making it look more dramatic.
Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
The sclera, the white part of the eye, is covered by a thin, transparent membrane called the conjunctiva. This membrane contains small blood vessels that can rupture. When one of these vessels breaks, blood leaks and becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and the sclera, forming the visible red spot.
Subconjunctival hemorrhages often occur due to a sudden increase in pressure in the head or neck. Actions like forceful coughing, vigorous sneezing, straining during bowel movements, vomiting, or heavy lifting can cause these vessels to burst. Minor eye trauma, such as rubbing the eye or complications from contact lens use, can also be a trigger. Sometimes, there is no identifiable cause, and the hemorrhage appears spontaneously.
Beyond the red patch, a subconjunctival hemorrhage presents with few other symptoms. It is painless, and vision remains unaffected. Some individuals might experience a mild scratchy sensation or irritation, but there should be no discharge or changes in visual acuity.
Healing Timeline and Process
Healing for a subconjunctival hemorrhage is similar to a bruise, as the blood is gradually reabsorbed. Healing time ranges from one to three weeks. Duration varies by hemorrhage size; larger patches may take longer to clear.
As the body reabsorbs the trapped blood, the red patch’s color will change. Initially bright red, it may transition through shades of orange, yellow, or yellowish-green before disappearing. This color progression indicates that healing is underway. No specific treatment, such as eye drops or medication, can speed up this absorption process. The eye’s inherent ability to heal is sufficient for resolution.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most subconjunctival hemorrhages are harmless and resolve on their own, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. If redness is accompanied by pain, vision changes (such as blurriness or double vision), or discharge, seek professional advice. Unusual sensitivity to light or if blood appears over the pupil or iris also signals a need for immediate attention.
Consultation is also recommended if the hemorrhage resulted from significant eye trauma, such as a direct blow to the eye. If the red patch does not improve or fade within two to three weeks, or if you experience recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages without a clear cause, consult a doctor. Recurrent or persistent hemorrhages can indicate underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or other systemic issues. An eye care specialist (ophthalmologist or optometrist) or a general practitioner can assess the situation and rule out serious concerns.