A small red dot appearing in the eye can be concerning. Often a bright red spot on the white of the eye, it can look alarming. Despite its appearance, this phenomenon is usually harmless and indicates a minor, temporary condition. This article explains common causes and when to seek care.
Understanding Common Causes
The most frequent reason for a small red dot in the eye is a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This occurs when one of the tiny, delicate blood vessels located just beneath the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye, breaks. Because the conjunctiva is clear, the blood becomes trapped underneath it, making the red spot highly visible.
Hemorrhages often appear without an obvious cause. Common activities like coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or straining can trigger them. Even vigorous eye rubbing or minor trauma, such as being poked in the eye, can lead to a burst vessel. The red dot usually does not cause pain or affect vision.
A red area can also be associated with pinguecula or pterygium, which are growths on the conjunctiva. A pinguecula is a yellowish patch or bump, while a pterygium is a fleshy growth extending onto the cornea. Both can become inflamed, causing localized redness that may resemble a red spot. Though distinct from a burst blood vessel, their inflammation can be mistaken for one.
Recognizing When to Seek Care
While many red dots are benign, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation. If the red dot causes pain, especially if sharp or persistent, seek attention. Vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or partial sight loss, are warning signs that require an immediate visit to an eye care professional.
Other symptoms indicating a serious issue include light sensitivity, persistent eye discharge, or a feeling of something stuck in the eye that doesn’t resolve. If the red dot appeared after significant eye trauma, like a direct blow, or spreads rapidly, medical consultation is important. Recurring red dots without a clear cause also require a thorough examination to rule out other conditions.
Managing a Red Dot
For most small red dots, especially subconjunctival hemorrhages, no specific medical treatment is necessary. The blood spot naturally reabsorbs over time, much like a bruise. This process usually takes one to two weeks, with the red spot gradually fading from bright red to orange, then yellow, before disappearing.
During healing, avoid rubbing the affected eye, as this can irritate the area or lead to another burst vessel. Maintain good eye hygiene, such as avoiding touching eyes with unwashed hands, to prevent secondary infections. Artificial tears can alleviate mild irritation or dryness, though they do not treat the hemorrhage.
If medical attention is sought for concerning symptoms, an eye care professional will conduct a thorough examination. This helps confirm the diagnosis and rule out serious underlying conditions causing the redness. The doctor will provide reassurance if benign or recommend appropriate management for identified issues.