A broken blood vessel in the eye, medically known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, appears as a bright red spot on the white part of the eye. This common occurrence often happens without pain or any changes in vision. While its appearance can be alarming, it is generally a harmless condition that typically resolves on its own.
Common Reasons for Broken Blood Vessels
Broken blood vessels often result from sudden, temporary increases in pressure. Everyday activities such as vigorous coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or straining during a bowel movement can rupture tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva. Lifting heavy objects or intense crying can also contribute to this temporary pressure rise.
Minor eye trauma can also lead to a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This includes accidentally poking the eye or rubbing it too vigorously. Careless contact lens insertion or removal may also cause a small hemorrhage.
Certain medications can increase the likelihood of these occurrences. Blood thinners, such as anticoagulants like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin, reduce the blood’s ability to clot. Even minor vessel damage can result in a more noticeable hemorrhage.
Underlying health conditions can sometimes play a role. High blood pressure (hypertension) can weaken blood vessel walls over time, making them more susceptible to rupture. Certain bleeding disorders can also contribute to spontaneous bleeding.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While typically benign, medical attention is warranted if accompanied by certain symptoms. Significant eye pain, vision changes (like blurriness or double vision), or eye discharge are red flags. Sensitivity to light also suggests professional evaluation.
Seek medical help if the broken vessel results from a significant eye injury or head trauma. These incidents could indicate more severe underlying damage to the eye or surrounding structures. An examination can help rule out serious internal eye damage.
Medical advice is also recommended if broken blood vessels occur frequently without a clear cause. This pattern could suggest an underlying systemic issue, such as a clotting disorder, requiring diagnosis and management.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure or a diagnosed bleeding disorder should consult a doctor if they experience a subconjunctival hemorrhage. If taking blood-thinning medications with recurrent episodes, medical advice can help assess dosage or explore other causes.
What to Expect and How to Manage
A broken blood vessel typically resolves on its own without specific medical treatment. The bright red spot will gradually fade as the blood is reabsorbed by the body, similar to how a bruise heals. This healing process usually takes one to three weeks, though larger spots may take slightly longer.
During resolution, the hemorrhage’s color may change. It can progress from bright red to a yellowish or greenish hue before disappearing completely.
Simple measures can provide comfort. Applying a cool compress to the closed eyelid can offer relief for minor irritation. Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can exacerbate the condition or introduce infection.
To minimize future occurrences, avoid vigorous eye rubbing. Managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure can contribute to overall vessel health. Practicing gentle techniques when inserting and removing contact lenses also helps prevent minor trauma to the eye’s surface.