A burst blood vessel in the eye, medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, appears as a bright red spot on the white part of the eye. While its appearance can be alarming, it is typically a harmless and common occurrence. This condition often looks worse than it is, and many people discover it incidentally.
Understanding a Burst Blood Vessel in the Eye
A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks just underneath the clear membrane covering the white of the eye, called the conjunctiva. This membrane contains many small blood vessels that can easily rupture. When a vessel breaks, blood becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and the underlying white part of the eye, known as the sclera, creating a visible red patch. The bleeding is superficial and does not affect the eyeball or a person’s vision. This condition is typically painless, though some individuals might experience a mild scratchy or gritty sensation on the eye’s surface.
Everyday Reasons for Burst Vessels
Many common activities can lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage by briefly increasing pressure in the head or neck. These include forceful actions such as coughing, vigorous sneezing, or vomiting. Straining during bowel movements or childbirth can also cause these small vessels to rupture. Heavy lifting or bending forward, which elevate blood pressure, are other potential causes.
Minor trauma to the eye is another frequent reason. This can include rubbing the eyes too hard, which applies direct pressure and can break delicate capillaries. Wearing contact lenses can also increase the risk, as inserting or removing them can create pressure or minor irritation. Additionally, certain medications, particularly blood thinners, can increase the likelihood of bleeding.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most subconjunctival hemorrhages are benign, certain accompanying symptoms or circumstances warrant medical evaluation. If the red spot is accompanied by eye pain, changes in vision such as blurriness or double vision, or any discharge from the eye, seek professional medical attention. Swelling around the eye or if the hemorrhage occurs after a significant head injury also suggests a need for prompt assessment.
Recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages without an obvious cause should be discussed with a doctor. This could indicate an underlying systemic condition, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure or a bleeding disorder. An eye care provider can perform an examination to rule out other, more serious, eye conditions or systemic health issues.
Recovery and Prevention
A subconjunctival hemorrhage generally requires no specific treatment, resolving on its own. The blood is reabsorbed by the body, similar to how a bruise heals. This process typically takes one to two weeks, though larger spots may take longer. As the blood clears, the patch’s color may change from bright red to brown, then to yellow, before fading completely.
While not all cases are preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk of future occurrences. Avoiding vigorous eye rubbing helps prevent trauma to the delicate eye vessels. Managing conditions that cause forceful coughing or sneezing can also be beneficial. If you take blood-thinning medications and experience frequent hemorrhages, discuss this with your doctor for potential medication adjustments.