A broken blood vessel in the eye, medically termed a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when a tiny blood vessel beneath the conjunctiva, the clear surface covering the white part of the eye, ruptures. When a vessel breaks, blood leaks out and becomes trapped, creating a noticeable red patch. This condition is common and generally not harmful.
The Distinctive Appearance
The most prominent sign of a broken blood vessel in the eye is a bright red or crimson patch on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. This patch can vary in size, ranging from a small dot to a more extensive area.
Despite its alarming appearance, a subconjunctival hemorrhage typically causes no pain, discharge, or changes in vision. Some individuals might experience a mild scratchy sensation or irritation on the eye’s surface, but this is usually the only physical discomfort. The condition primarily presents as a visual change, and many people only discover it by looking in a mirror or when someone else points it out.
Understanding the Causes
A subconjunctival hemorrhage frequently results from sudden, brief increases in pressure within the body. Common activities that can lead to this include forceful coughing, sneezing, vomiting, straining during a bowel movement, heavy lifting, or vigorous eye rubbing.
Less common contributors include certain medications, especially blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin, which can increase bleeding risk. Minor eye trauma, such as an accidental bump, can also be a cause. Underlying health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes are also associated with an increased risk, particularly in older adults.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While a subconjunctival hemorrhage is often harmless, certain accompanying symptoms or circumstances warrant medical evaluation. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if the redness is accompanied by pain or any changes in vision, such as blurriness or double vision. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying eye problem.
Seeking medical advice is also recommended if the subconjunctival hemorrhage recurs frequently without a clear cause. A history of bleeding disorders or if the broken vessel occurred after significant eye or head trauma are also reasons to see a doctor.
Resolution and Management
A broken blood vessel in the eye typically resolves on its own without specific treatment. The blood patch will gradually fade over one to two weeks, similar to how a bruise on the skin heals. As the blood is reabsorbed by the body, the bright red color may transition to a yellowish tint before disappearing completely.
There is no known method to accelerate the healing process. While artificial tears may offer relief for any mild irritation, they do not treat the hemorrhage itself. It is generally advisable to avoid rubbing the affected eye during the healing period.