What Is a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage?

A subconjunctival hemorrhage happens when a tiny blood vessel breaks underneath the clear surface of the eye. This causes a bright red spot or patch to appear on the white part of the eye.

Several things can increase the chance of a broken blood vessel in the eye, including:

• Minor eye injuries
• Contact lens irritation
• Heavy coughing, sneezing, or vomiting
• Straining during bowel movements
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Blood-thinning medications
• Eye surgery or trauma
• Bleeding or clotting disorders

Even though it can look serious, this condition is usually harmless. In most cases, the eye heals on its own over the next few weeks without affecting vision.

Symptoms

Many people notice the redness suddenly, often after waking up or after coughing, sneezing, or straining. Most subconjunctival hemorrhages do not cause pain or vision problems.

Common symptoms may include:

• Bright red area on the white of the eye
• Mild eye irritation or scratchy feeling
• Redness in one eye only
• No changes in vision

How Is It Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider can often diagnose a subconjunctival hemorrhage during a routine eye exam. They will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or health conditions.

If you have recurring bleeding, eye pain, vision changes, or an eye injury, you may need additional testing or an evaluation by an eye specialist. In some cases, blood tests may be recommended to check for underlying health concerns.

How Is It Treated?

Most subconjunctival hemorrhages heal without treatment. The trapped blood slowly breaks down and fades over time, much like a bruise on the skin.

Your provider may recommend:

• Artificial tears for irritation
• Warm compresses for comfort
• Monitoring the eye as it heals
• Treatment for underlying conditions such as high blood pressure

Most people recover fully within two to three weeks. Contact a healthcare provider if the redness does not improve, if you develop pain, or if your vision changes.