“Popped blood vessels” refer to two distinct phenomena: a subconjunctival hemorrhage in the eye or broken capillaries on the skin, also known as telangiectasias. While both involve small blood vessels, their location and characteristics differ. They are generally common and often benign, though their visible nature can cause cosmetic concern.
Understanding Popped Blood Vessels
A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks just underneath the clear surface of the eye, called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva covers the white part of the eye (sclera) and contains tiny blood vessels. When a vessel breaks, blood leaks between the conjunctiva and sclera, appearing as a bright red patch on the white of the eye. This can result from actions that briefly increase pressure in the head, such as violent coughing, powerful sneezing, straining, or vomiting. A subconjunctival hemorrhage usually presents no pain, vision changes, or discharge, only occasionally a mild scratchy feeling. It typically resolves on its own within one to two weeks as the blood is reabsorbed, sometimes leaving a yellowish tinge as it fades.
On the skin, “popped blood vessels” are more accurately termed telangiectasias, often called spider veins. These are widened venules, or tiny blood vessels, that cause threadlike red, blue, or purple lines or patterns on the skin. They commonly appear on the face (cheeks, nose, chin) and legs but can occur anywhere on the body. Contributing factors include chronic sun exposure, aging, genetics, hormonal changes (like pregnancy), rosacea, trauma to the skin, and certain medications. Telangiectasias are usually asymptomatic but can sometimes cause mild itching or a burning sensation.
Home Care and Self-Treatment
For a subconjunctival hemorrhage in the eye, home care involves observation. Since these usually resolve naturally, specific medical treatment is often unnecessary. Avoiding rubbing the affected eye is advisable to prevent further irritation or damage. If a scratchy sensation is present, artificial tears can be used to provide lubrication and alleviate discomfort.
Managing telangiectasias on the skin focuses on symptom reduction and preventing worsening. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce any immediate redness or swelling. While not “erasing” the vessels, protecting the skin from further damage can limit their prominence. This includes gentle skin care practices and avoiding harsh scrubbing that might irritate the capillaries.
Medical Treatments and Interventions
Professional medical options are available for persistent or cosmetically bothersome telangiectasias on the skin, as eye hemorrhages typically clear without intervention. Laser therapy is a common and effective treatment. Lasers specifically target the hemoglobin within the blood vessels. The laser energy is absorbed by the blood, heating and coagulating the vessel, which then causes it to collapse and eventually fade from view. This process allows the body to naturally clear the treated vessel over time.
For larger spider veins, sclerotherapy is another established medical procedure. This involves injecting a sclerosant solution into the affected blood vessel. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell, stick together, and eventually close off. The closed vessel then scars and fades from view, with blood rerouted through healthier veins. Both laser therapy and sclerotherapy are outpatient procedures that require consultation with a dermatologist or a vascular specialist to determine suitability and expected outcomes.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most popped blood vessels are harmless, certain signs warrant medical attention. For an eye hemorrhage, seek medical attention if the redness is accompanied by pain, changes in vision, discharge from the eye, or if it occurred after a significant head injury or trauma. Recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages, especially without an obvious cause like straining, suggest a need for medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.
For telangiectasias on the skin, consult a doctor if they are painful, rapidly spreading, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These might include unexplained bruising, bleeding, or if the skin changes are part of a broader systemic condition. Such symptoms could indicate an underlying health issue that requires diagnosis and management by a healthcare professional.
Preventing Future Occurrences
Preventing future subconjunctival hemorrhages involves managing activities that induce sudden pressure increases. Avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements, managing chronic coughs, and protecting the eyes from direct trauma can reduce the likelihood of vessel rupture. If prone to eye rubbing, consciously minimizing this habit can also be beneficial.
To minimize the recurrence of skin telangiectasias, proactive skin care and lifestyle adjustments help. Consistent sun protection, including sunscreen and hats, helps shield the skin from ultraviolet radiation that can damage capillaries. Gentle skin care routines that avoid harsh cleansers or abrasive scrubbing contribute to skin health. Addressing underlying conditions like rosacea, which can cause facial redness and vessel dilation, through appropriate medical management can also help reduce the appearance of new spider veins.