Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye

Subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually a harmless condition recognized by a bright red patch on the white of the eye. Its appearance can be striking, but if there is no pain or vision loss, it generally resolves on its own within days to a few weeks.

What is subconjunctival hemorrhage?

Subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a small blood vessel breaks beneath the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. As a result, a bright red area becomes visible. The appearance can be alarming, but in most cases the condition is not serious and does not cause lasting damage. It usually does not cause pain and does not affect vision. ^[1][2]

What are the symptoms like?

The most obvious finding is a red patch that is noticed suddenly on the white of the eye. Most people do not have pain, discharge, or vision loss. Mild irritation, a feeling of fullness, or dryness may occur. If pain, light sensitivity, heavy tearing, or reduced vision accompanies the redness, other eye problems should be considered. ^[1][2]

What causes it?

Sometimes no clear cause is found. Forceful coughing, sneezing, vomiting, eye rubbing, minor trauma, or high blood pressure may make these small vessels more likely to break. Blood-thinning medications and clotting disorders can also contribute. In recurrent cases, an underlying cause should be investigated. ^[1][2]

Diagnosis and evaluation

Diagnosis is usually made on eye examination. The physician evaluates whether this is a simple subconjunctival hemorrhage or a condition related to trauma, infection, or another eye disorder. In recurrent episodes, blood pressure measurement and medication history are especially important. ^[1][2]

Is treatment necessary?

In most patients, no special treatment is required. The blood is gradually reabsorbed over a period ranging from days to weeks. If dryness or irritation is bothersome, artificial tears may be used. Rubbing the eye in an attempt to disperse the blood is not appropriate. ^[2]

When should you see a doctor?

Medical evaluation is appropriate if there is blurred vision, significant pain, light sensitivity, a history of eye trauma, recurrent episodes, or bleeding in both eyes at the same time. Additional assessment may also be warranted in people taking blood thinners and in those with high blood pressure. ^[1][2]

Brief conclusion

A broken blood vessel in the eye is usually harmless and resolves on its own. Nevertheless, pain, changes in vision, or recurrent episodes make ophthalmologic assessment important. ^[1][2]

For safe assessment, symptoms should be considered together with personal risk factors; particularly if emergency warning signs are present, individualized medical evaluation should not be delayed. ^[1][2]