Subconjunctival bleeding

A condition where blood appears in the white of the eye

Subconjunctival bleeding
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Subconjunctival bleeding, also known as subconjunctival hemorrhage, is a condition where blood accumulates beneath the conjunctiva, the clear surface of the eye. This results in a bright red patch appearing in the white of the eye, known as the sclera.

Causes

Subconjunctival bleeding can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Trauma to the eye, such as rubbing the eye vigorously or an injury.
• Sudden increases in blood pressure from activities like heavy lifting, coughing, sneezing, or vomiting.
• Blood clotting disorders or the use of anticoagulant medications.
• Diabetes or hypertension, which can affect blood vessels.
• Eye surgery or contact lens use.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of subconjunctival bleeding is a red patch on the sclera. It is usually painless and does not affect vision. Some people may experience a mild irritation or a feeling of fullness in the eye.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through a visual examination of the eye. In most cases, no further testing is required unless there is a suspicion of an underlying condition.

Treatment

Subconjunctival bleeding usually resolves on its own without treatment within one to two weeks. Artificial tears can be used to alleviate any irritation. If the bleeding is due to an underlying condition, such as a blood clotting disorder, that condition will need to be addressed.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Avoiding eye trauma by wearing protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk to the eyes.
• Managing underlying health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
• Being cautious with medications that affect blood clotting.

Prognosis

The prognosis for subconjunctival bleeding is excellent, as it is generally a benign condition. It does not typically lead to any long-term complications.

Also see

• Conjunctivitis
• Sclera
• Ophthalmology
• Eye injury