A burst blood vessel in the eye, though visually striking, is a common and typically harmless condition. This visible redness on the white part of the eye can appear alarming. Despite its appearance, it rarely indicates a serious health problem and usually resolves on its own without intervention.
Understanding the Condition
A burst blood vessel in the eye is medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This occurs when small blood vessels located just beneath the conjunctiva rupture. The conjunctiva is a clear, thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye (sclera) and the inner surface of the eyelids. When a vessel breaks, blood leaks and becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and the sclera, appearing as a bright red patch on the white of the eye. Unlike a bruise on the skin, the blood cannot spread or be wiped away because it is contained under this superficial layer. The bleeding does not occur on the eye’s surface, nor does it typically affect vision or cause pain.
Common Causes
Various everyday activities can lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage by causing a sudden, temporary increase in pressure within the eye’s blood vessels. Forceful actions such as coughing, sneezing, or vomiting can trigger these small vessels to rupture. Straining during heavy lifting or bowel movements can also contribute to this temporary pressure surge.
Minor trauma to the eye is another frequent cause. This can include rubbing the eyes vigorously or even the accidental insertion or removal of contact lenses. Sometimes, a subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs without a clear reason, referred to as a spontaneous or idiopathic event.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most subconjunctival hemorrhages are benign and resolve without treatment, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. Seek prompt attention if you experience eye pain, as the hemorrhage itself typically does not cause discomfort. Changes in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or any loss of vision, also require professional assessment.
Other concerning signs include sensitivity to light, eye discharge, or if the redness spreads to the colored part (iris). A history of recurring hemorrhages, recent head or eye trauma, or if the hemorrhage does not begin to fade within two to three weeks, should prompt a visit to an eye care professional. These symptoms could suggest a more serious underlying condition, such as high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, or other eye conditions like a hyphema, which involves bleeding within the front chamber of the eye.
Recovery and What to Expect
For typical cases, a subconjunctival hemorrhage follows a natural healing process. The blood will gradually reabsorb into the body, similar to how a bruise fades. This process usually takes one to three weeks, with larger patches of redness potentially taking longer to disappear.
As the blood clears, the color of the red patch may change, often transitioning from bright red to shades of yellow or green before fully resolving. No specific medical treatment is required for a simple subconjunctival hemorrhage. It is advisable to avoid using eye drops or other remedies unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.