A popped blood vessel in the eye, medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks underneath the clear surface of the eye. This results in a bright red patch on the white part of the eye, which can look alarming but is typically a harmless and common occurrence. This condition generally does not affect vision or cause pain, and it often resolves on its own.
Identifying the Appearance and Causes
A subconjunctival hemorrhage presents as a bright red area on the white part of the eye, the sclera. The blood spot may appear suddenly, sometimes noticed upon waking or when looking in a mirror. This visible bleeding occurs because the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white of the eye, contains numerous tiny blood vessels that can break easily.
Many common activities can lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage by briefly increasing pressure in the veins. These include coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or straining during activities like bowel movements or heavy lifting. Even minor eye trauma, such as rubbing the eye too vigorously, can cause a vessel to break. Factors like taking blood-thinning medications or having underlying conditions such as high blood pressure can make vessels more fragile.
When Professional Help Is Needed
While a subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually benign, certain accompanying symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. If you experience pain in the eye, changes in vision such as blurriness or loss of sight, or notice any discharge from the eye, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. These signs suggest that something more serious than a popped blood vessel may be occurring.
Professional help is also advised if the subconjunctival hemorrhage resulted from recent eye trauma or injury. If the red area does not begin to fade after a few days, appears to worsen, or if you experience repeated occurrences of popped blood vessels, a doctor can assess for any underlying medical conditions. This evaluation helps rule out other potential issues that may require specific treatment.
What to Expect During Recovery
When a subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs without other concerning symptoms, it typically resolves naturally over time, similar to how a bruise on the skin heals. The blood spot will gradually fade, often changing color from bright red to shades of yellow or green as the body reabsorbs the blood. This reabsorption process usually takes about one to two weeks, depending on the size of the hemorrhage.
During the recovery period, no specific treatment is generally necessary. It is advisable to avoid rubbing the affected eye, as this could cause further irritation or minor damage. Throughout this healing process, your vision should remain unaffected, and you can continue with your daily activities. The eye will clear the blood, returning to its normal appearance.