A “burst blood vessel in the eye” is medically termed a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This occurs when tiny, fragile blood vessels beneath the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye, rupture. The blood then pools in this space, creating a noticeable red patch. While its appearance can be alarming, this condition is typically harmless and resolves on its own.
What It Looks Like
A subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a bright red patch on the sclera, the white part of the eye. The blood does not extend into the iris, the colored part of the eye, nor does it affect the pupil. Individuals experience no pain, discharge, or changes in their vision. The redness might spread slightly during the first day or two, but it will gradually fade in one to two weeks, much like a bruise on the skin changes color as it heals.
Common Triggers
Burst blood vessels in the eye often stem from actions that temporarily increase pressure in the head or eyes. Straining during a bowel movement, vigorous coughing, or sneezing can cause this. Vomiting, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise are also triggers. Minor eye trauma, such as an accidental poke or rubbing the eye too forcefully, can also cause vessels to rupture. Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, can make vessels more susceptible to bursting.
Underlying Health Factors
While often benign, certain health conditions can increase the likelihood of a subconjunctival hemorrhage, especially if episodes recur. Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension) can weaken blood vessel walls, making them more prone to rupture. Diabetes can also affect small blood vessels, including those in the eye. Underlying blood clotting disorders, such as hemophilia, impair the blood’s ability to clot effectively, leading to easier bleeding. Recent eye surgery or specific eye conditions that cause excessive rubbing, like severe dry eye, can also contribute.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most subconjunctival hemorrhages are harmless and resolve, certain symptoms or circumstances warrant a doctor’s consultation. Seek medical attention if you experience pain in the eye or vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or loss of vision. Discharge from the eye along with the hemorrhage is also a reason to consult a doctor.
Recurrent episodes of burst blood vessels, especially if there is no clear trigger, should be evaluated. If the hemorrhage is accompanied by bruising elsewhere on the body, or if it resulted from significant trauma to the head or eye, professional medical advice is recommended. Individuals taking blood thinners who experience frequent or large hemorrhages should also discuss this with their healthcare provider. The diagnosis is typically made through a visual examination, and in most cases, the blood reabsorbs on its own.