A busted eye vessel, a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when a tiny blood vessel just beneath the clear surface of the eye breaks, resulting in a bright red patch on the white part of the eye. Despite its alarming appearance, it is typically harmless and usually does not affect vision or pain.
What a Busted Eye Vessel Looks Like
A subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a distinct, bright red area, usually in one spot on the white of the eye. This redness is on the eye’s surface, resembling a bruise. The eye generally feels normal, and there is no associated pain, itching, discharge, or vision changes.
Common Triggers
Many everyday actions can cause a busted eye vessel by temporarily increasing pressure in the head or chest. Straining activities, such as vigorous coughing, sneezing, or vomiting, are frequent triggers. Lifting heavy objects or straining during a bowel movement can also contribute. Minor physical actions, like rubbing the eye too vigorously or accidentally poking it, can also cause a vessel to break. Even simple actions like bending over or stooping might sometimes trigger a subconjunctival hemorrhage, and sometimes, one appears with no identifiable cause.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While often harmless, certain symptoms or circumstances warrant evaluation for a busted eye vessel. Seek attention if you experience eye pain alongside the redness. Vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or vision loss, also indicate professional assessment. Eye discharge or a history of recent significant eye trauma, like a direct blow, should prompt a doctor’s visit. Recurrent busted eye vessels without obvious cause also suggest medical review. If the redness spreads beyond the white part of the eye, involves the colored part (iris or pupil), or is accompanied by other symptoms like a severe headache, nausea, or vomiting, consult a healthcare provider. In rare instances, these signs could point to an underlying medical condition, such as high blood pressure or bleeding disorders, requiring attention.
Management and Recovery
A busted eye vessel typically does not require specific treatment, as it resolves on its own. The healing process is similar to a bruise, with the red patch gradually fading and changing color over time. Complete resolution usually occurs within one to two weeks. Avoid rubbing the affected eye during healing. While artificial tears can be used if there is any minor irritation, they do not speed up the healing process. Vision is generally unaffected throughout the recovery, and the condition is not contagious.