A subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a bright red patch on the white part of the eye, often looking alarming. This condition results from a small blood vessel bursting on the eye’s surface. Despite its striking appearance, it is a common occurrence and generally does not pose a serious health risk.
What is a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage?
A subconjunctival hemorrhage involves bleeding just beneath the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. This membrane contains numerous tiny, fragile blood vessels. When one breaks, blood leaks out and becomes trapped, forming a distinct bright red spot.
The appearance is similar to a bruise on the skin, flat and painless, and it does not affect vision. Common causes include sudden increases in pressure from coughing, sneezing, straining during bowel movements, vomiting, or heavy lifting. Minor eye trauma, rubbing the eyes, or certain medications like blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) can also contribute. High blood pressure or diabetes can also be underlying causes.
Do Eye Drops Treat Subconjunctival Hemorrhage?
There are no specific medicated eye drops or prescription treatments designed to cure a subconjunctival hemorrhage or accelerate the reabsorption of the blood. The hemorrhage resolves on its own, much like a bruise on the skin, as the body naturally absorbs the blood. This healing process usually takes about one to two weeks, though larger spots might take longer. As the blood clears, the red patch may change color, fading from bright red to brown and then yellow.
While no drops treat the hemorrhage itself, certain over-the-counter eye drops can manage associated discomfort. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can alleviate mild irritation or a scratchy feeling on the eye’s surface. However, these drops only provide comfort and do not influence healing time. Avoid using decongestant eye drops, as they are ineffective for subconjunctival hemorrhages and may cause rebound redness or other undesirable effects. Unnecessary medications or home remedies applied directly to the eye should also be avoided.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While a subconjunctival hemorrhage usually resolves without intervention, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. If the red patch is accompanied by eye pain, changes in vision such as blurriness or double vision, discharge from the eye, or increased sensitivity to light, a healthcare provider should be consulted. Medical attention is also advised if the hemorrhage occurs following significant eye trauma or injury, as this could indicate a more serious underlying issue.
You should also seek medical advice if the hemorrhage recurs frequently without an apparent cause, or if you are taking blood-thinning medications and have concerns about the bleeding. If the redness spreads to the iris or the clear cornea, or if the hemorrhage does not begin to resolve or completely disappear within two to three weeks, a doctor can assess the situation. A healthcare professional can help rule out other conditions or investigate potential underlying causes, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure or a blood clotting disorder.