A common sight that can cause alarm is a bright red spot on the white part of the eye, often described as a “popped” blood vessel. This condition is medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. While dramatic, it is typically harmless and rarely indicates a serious underlying issue. It usually resolves on its own without requiring specific medical intervention.
Understanding a “Popped” Blood Vessel in the Eye
A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when tiny blood vessels beneath the conjunctiva rupture. The conjunctiva is a thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye, known as the sclera, and the inside of the eyelids. When these vessels break, blood leaks and becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and sclera, forming a bright red patch.
This accumulation of blood is similar to a bruise on the skin, appearing as a flat, vivid red spot on the eye’s surface. Despite its appearance, a subconjunctival hemorrhage does not involve a burst eyeball or affect vision. It generally causes no pain or discharge, though some individuals may experience a mild scratchy sensation on the eye’s surface.
Common Reasons for a Blood Vessel to Pop
Many everyday activities can lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage by briefly increasing pressure. Forceful actions such as coughing, sneezing, or vomiting can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure within the conjunctival capillaries, leading to their rupture. Straining during bowel movements or heavy lifting can also create similar pressure changes.
Vigorous rubbing of the eyes, even if seemingly minor, can cause enough trauma to break these fragile vessels. Intense crying can also contribute to a temporary increase in pressure that may lead to a hemorrhage. In some instances, a subconjunctival hemorrhage may occur without any identifiable cause, often noticed upon waking.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most subconjunctival hemorrhages are benign, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. If redness is accompanied by eye pain, changes in vision (such as blurriness or double vision), or eye discharge, consult a healthcare provider. Recurring hemorrhages or bleeding in both eyes simultaneously also suggest a need for further investigation.
A recent eye injury or trauma, even if seemingly minor, should prompt a medical visit, as it could indicate a more serious issue. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin or anticoagulants) should also seek medical advice if they experience a hemorrhage, as these can increase bleeding. Sometimes, a subconjunctival hemorrhage can be associated with underlying conditions like high blood pressure or bleeding disorders, making a consultation with a doctor beneficial to rule out these possibilities.
What to Expect After a Blood Vessel Pops
A subconjunctival hemorrhage typically resolves on its own without specific treatment. The blood spot usually begins to clear within one to two weeks, though larger hemorrhages may take two to four weeks to completely disappear. As the blood is reabsorbed by the body, the bright red patch will gradually change color, similar to how a bruise fades, progressing from red to brown and then to yellow.
Vision is generally unaffected throughout the healing process. No specific treatment can accelerate the resolution of the hemorrhage, as the body’s natural healing mechanisms handle the reabsorption of the blood. Artificial tears may be used if mild eye irritation occurs, but other interventions are typically not required.