A burst blood vessel in the eye, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, manifests as a bright red patch on the white part of the eye. While its appearance can be unsettling, it typically indicates a harmless condition.
What is a Burst Blood Vessel in the Eye?
The white part of your eye, the sclera, is covered by a thin, transparent membrane called the conjunctiva. Beneath this clear layer, numerous tiny blood vessels are present. When one breaks, blood leaks out and becomes trapped between the conjunctiva and the sclera.
The blood appears bright red because it is fresh and visible against the white sclera, beneath the transparent conjunctiva. Despite its dramatic appearance, it does not affect vision. The bleeding occurs on the outer surface of the eye and does not involve inner structures responsible for sight.
Everyday Causes and Triggers
Common activities can lead to a sudden rupture of these vessels. Actions that temporarily increase pressure in the head and chest, such as forceful sneezing or a strong cough, can cause this. Straining during a bowel movement or lifting heavy objects may also exert sufficient pressure to burst a vessel. Vomiting is another common trigger, as it creates significant pressure within the blood vessels. Minor eye trauma, like accidentally poking the eye or rubbing it too vigorously, can also lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage.
Underlying Health Conditions
Less commonly, underlying health conditions can contribute to the fragility of these blood vessels. Sustained high blood pressure can weaken the walls of capillaries over time. This makes them more susceptible to rupture even with minor pressure fluctuations.
Certain medications can also increase the likelihood of a subconjunctival hemorrhage. Medications designed to prevent blood clotting, such as aspirin, warfarin, or newer direct oral anticoagulants, reduce the blood’s ability to form clots. This means even a minor tear in a vessel can result in more noticeable bleeding. Rarely, conditions like diabetes or certain bleeding disorders may also predispose individuals due to their impact on blood vessel integrity or clotting mechanisms.
When to Consult a Doctor
Most subconjunctival hemorrhages are benign and resolve on their own, typically fading within one to two weeks as the blood is reabsorbed. No specific treatment is usually required. However, certain accompanying symptoms warrant a medical evaluation.
You should consult a doctor if the hemorrhage is accompanied by pain, changes in your vision, or discharge from the eye. Recurrent hemorrhages, especially without an apparent cause, also indicate a need for professional assessment. If you have a history of high blood pressure or a bleeding disorder, or if the hemorrhage occurred after significant trauma to your head or eye, seeking medical advice is important.