Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

A subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red patch appearing on the white of the eye.  This condition occurs when a small blood vessel breaks open and bleeds just under the surface tissue (conjunctiva) of the eye.  A sudden increase in blood pressure is often the cause of a subconjunctival hemorrhage.  Events such as violent sneezing or coughing, vomiting, or heavy lifting can often be blamed.  People with hypertension or who take blood thinners are more prone to getting subconjunctival hemorrhages.

Subconjunctival hemorrhages do not cause pain, and there is no discharge from the eye.  Vision is unaffected.  It is often a good idea to have your eye care provider take a look at any eye redness to verify the true cause.  I would suggest checking your blood pressure if you are prone to subconjunctival hemorrhages.

No treatment is often required for a subconjunctival hemorrhage unless an underlying cause is uncovered, such as hypertension or other cardiovascular issues.  Alternating warm and cool compresses can often speed resolution of the eye redness, but a subconjunctival hemorrhage will usually go away on its’ own in about a week

Dr. Bradley J. Wicklund - Optometrist

20/20 Visions

Plymouth, WI 53073

(920) 893-3937

www.20-20visions.com

bwicklund@20-20visions.com