Seeing a bright red patch on the white of your eye can be scary. But, a subconjunctival hemorrhage, or a burst blood vessel, is usually not serious. It often gets better on its own. What causes a burst blood vessel behind eye? This guide explains the dangerous causes and symptoms of an orbital hemorrhage.
This happens when a small vessel in the conjunctiva, the clear layer over the white part of the eye, ruptures and bleeds. Even though it looks serious, most times it doesn’t need treatment and heals in a few weeks.
At Liv Hospital, we know how worried this can make you. We’re here to give you a thorough check-up and make you feel better. We deal with this common eye problem all the time.
Key Takeaways
- A subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually a harmless condition.
- It occurs when a tiny vessel in the conjunctiva breaks and bleeds.
- Most cases heal on their own within a few weeks.
- No treatment is required in most instances.
- Liv Hospital offers complete care for those with this condition.
Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
A subconjunctival hemorrhage is when a blood vessel under the conjunctiva breaks. The conjunctiva is the clear layer over the white part of the eye. This condition shows blood under the conjunctiva, which looks scary but is usually not serious.
What Is a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage?
A subconjunctival hemorrhage happens when a small blood vessel in the conjunctiva bursts. This leads to bleeding into the space between the conjunctiva and the sclera. The bleeding can make a bright red or dark red patch on the white part of the eye.
This patch might feel a bit irritated or uncomfortable. The conjunctiva has many tiny blood vessels that can easily break. When they do, blood leaks into the subconjunctival space, causing a hemorrhage. The condition is usually painless but can be cosmetically concerning due to its appearance.
Anatomy of the Eye and Conjunctiva
To understand subconjunctival hemorrhage, knowing the eye’s anatomy is key. The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. It keeps the eye moist and protects it from infection.
The eye has several important parts:
- The sclera, the white outer layer that provides protection.
- The conjunctiva, which covers the sclera and the inside of the eyelids.
- The cornea, the clear layer at the front of the eye that allows light to enter.
Knowing these parts helps us understand how a subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs and its effects on eye health.
Recognizing a Burst Blood Vessel Behind the Eye
A burst blood vessel behind the eye is called subconjunctival hemorrhage. It has clear signs. We’ll talk about what to look for and how it’s different from other eye problems.
Common Symptoms and Appearance
The main sign is a bright red patch on the white part of the eye. This happens when blood leaks into the space between the conjunctiva and the sclera.
This condition is known for:
- A bright red or crimson spot on the sclera
- No discharge or pain associated with the condition
- No change in vision
- The redness can range from a small spot to covering the entire white part of the eye
How It Differs from Other Eye Conditions
Even though a subconjunctival hemorrhage looks scary, it’s usually not serious. But, it’s important to tell it apart from other eye issues that might need a doctor.
Unlike conjunctivitis, a subconjunctival hemorrhage doesn’t cause:
- Discharge or crusting around the eye
- Pain or discomfort
- Changes in vision
Knowing these differences helps you spot the condition right. And if you need to, get the right medical help.
Common Causes of a Burst Blood Vessel Behind Eye
It’s important to know why subconjunctival hemorrhage happens. This condition can be caused by many things, from small injuries to serious health issues.
Physical Trauma and Eye Injuries
Eye injuries are a big reason for subconjunctival hemorrhage. This includes getting hit in the eye, accidents, or problems after surgery. The force can break the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva, causing bleeding.
Examples of physical trauma include:
- Sports injuries
- Accidental pokes or bumps to the eye
- Car accidents
- Surgical procedures
Straining and Pressure Increases
Doing things that make blood vessels pressure up can also cause subconjunctival hemorrhage. This includes hard coughing, sneezing, or straining during bowel movements. The high pressure can make the blood vessels in the eye burst.
Activity | Effect on Blood Vessels |
Intense Coughing | Increased pressure, possible rupture |
Sneezing | Sudden pressure increase |
Straining during Bowel Movements | Pressure on blood vessels, risk of rupture |
Spontaneous Ruptures
At times, subconjunctival hemorrhage happens without any clear reason. This might be because blood vessels are naturally weak or because of health issues that affect them.
Knowing the reasons can help prevent it and get the right medical help when needed.
Medical Conditions That Increase Risk
Many health issues can make a burst blood vessel behind the eye more likely. Some medical conditions can weaken blood vessels, making them more likely to burst. We will look at these conditions in this section.
Hypertension and Cardiovascular Issues
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a big risk factor for subconjunctival hemorrhage. The high pressure can make blood vessels weak and prone to rupture. Cardiovascular issues that affect the heart’s pumping ability also raise the risk.
Blood Disorders and Clotting Problems
Blood disorders, like bleeding disorders or clotting problems, can also increase the risk. These conditions can make it hard for blood to clot, leading to more bleeding.
Diabetes and Eye Health
Diabetes can harm eye health, including raising the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, making them more likely to burst.
Conjunctivitis and Eye Infections
Conjunctivitis, or inflammation or infection of the outer eye and inner eyelid, can also raise the risk. While it may not directly cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage, the inflammation and irritation can contribute to the risk.
Medications and Substances That Contribute to Eye Hemorrhages
Many medications and substances can raise the risk of eye hemorrhages. They affect how blood clots and the health of blood vessels. Knowing this is key to understanding your risk and how to prevent it.
Blood Thinners and Anticoagulants
Blood thinners and anticoagulants stop blood clots from forming or growing. They’re vital for preventing heart attacks and strokes. But, they can also increase the chance of eye hemorrhages.
Medicines like warfarin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban are common blood thinners. They work by stopping the liver from making certain clotting factors or by blocking thrombin or factor Xa.
Blood Thinner | Mechanism of Action | Common Use |
Warfarin | Inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors | Prevents stroke in atrial fibrillation |
Dabigatran | Directly inhibits thrombin | Prevents deep vein thrombosis |
Rivaroxaban | Inhibits factor Xa | Treats and prevents deep vein thrombosis |
NSAIDs and Aspirin
NSAIDs and aspirin help with pain and inflammation. But, they can also make it easier for blood to bleed, raising the risk of eye hemorrhages.
Aspirin, in particular, can stop platelets from sticking together. This makes it a big risk factor for bleeding, like eye hemorrhages, when taken for a long time or in large doses.
Other Medications and Supplements
Other drugs and supplements can also increase the risk of eye hemorrhages. These include:
- Antiplatelet drugs like clopidogrel
- Certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba and garlic supplements, which can affect blood clotting
Alcohol and Tobacco Effects
Drinking alcohol and smoking can also raise the risk of eye hemorrhages. Alcohol can mess with liver function and blood clotting. Smoking damages blood vessels and harms heart health.
It’s important to know how medications and substances can lead to eye hemorrhages. If you’re taking these, talk to your doctor about how to stay safe.
Age-Related Factors in Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
Subconjunctival hemorrhage is more common among older adults. This is because aging changes our blood vessels. As we get older, our blood vessels get weaker and more likely to break.
Why Older Adults Are More Susceptible
Older adults face a higher risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage. This is because aging makes the conjunctiva thinner and blood vessels more fragile. Even minor trauma can cause them to rupture.
Older adults also have a higher chance of health issues like hypertension and diabetes. Hypertension, in particular, can make blood vessels brittle and prone to rupture.
Age-Related Changes in Blood Vessels
Aging changes blood vessels in ways that increase the risk of hemorrhage. The walls of blood vessels thin and lose elasticity, making them more likely to rupture. The tissue around blood vessels also weakens, providing less support and increasing the risk of hemorrhage.
“The aging process affects not just the blood vessels themselves but also the surrounding tissue, making older adults more susceptible to subconjunctival hemorrhage.”
Statistics on Occurrence in Elderly Populations
Studies show that subconjunctival hemorrhage is more common in older adults. A study in the Journal of Ophthalmology found that the rate of subconjunctival hemorrhage increases significantly after age 50.
Age Group | Incidence Rate |
40-49 years | 12 per 100,000 |
50-59 years | 25 per 100,000 |
60-69 years | 40 per 100,000 |
70+ years | 60 per 100,000 |
These statistics show why understanding age-related factors in subconjunctival hemorrhage is key. Healthcare providers can better manage and treat this condition in older adults by recognizing these risks.
Diagnosing a Burst Blood Vessel Behind the Eye
A burst blood vessel behind the eye, or subconjunctival hemorrhage, is diagnosed through a detailed medical examination. This includes various tests and procedures. This condition, while often benign, requires careful evaluation to rule out underlying serious health issues.
Medical Examination Process
When you visit a healthcare provider with symptoms of a subconjunctival hemorrhage, the diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history. We also do a detailed eye examination. We assess the overall health of your eyes, looking for any signs of trauma, infection, or other conditions that could be contributing to the hemorrhage.
The examination typically involves:
- A visual acuity test to assess the sharpness of your vision
- An external examination of the eye and surrounding areas
- A slit-lamp examination to closely examine the conjunctiva and other eye structures
Tests and Procedures
To further understand the cause of the subconjunctival hemorrhage and to rule out other conditions, we may conduct additional tests. These can include:
- Blood pressure measurement to check for hypertension
- Blood tests to assess clotting factors and rule out blood disorders
- Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, in rare cases where there’s suspicion of a more serious underlying condition
These tests help us determine if the hemorrhage is an isolated incident or if it’s related to an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
Ruling Out Serious Conditions
While subconjunctival hemorrhages are often harmless and resolve on their own, it’s important to differentiate them from more serious conditions. We carefully evaluate your symptoms and test results to rule out conditions such as:
- Ocular or orbital trauma
- Infections or inflammatory conditions
- Tumors or other growths
By conducting a thorough diagnostic process, we can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan. This ensures that any underlying conditions are identified and treated.
Treatment Options and Recovery Timeline
Subconjunctival hemorrhage treatment combines self-care and sometimes medical help. It usually heals on its own. Knowing the treatment options can help manage symptoms and appearance.
Self-Care Measures
Most subconjunctival hemorrhages don’t need strong treatment. Self-care measures can ease discomfort and aid healing. These include:
- Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling
- Using artificial tears to soothe the eye
- Avoiding rubbing or touching the affected eye
- Getting plenty of rest
Medical Interventions When Necessary
At times, medical help is needed for underlying issues or complications. Medical treatments might include:
- Antibiotic eye drops for infections
- Stopping blood-thinning meds (with doctor’s advice)
- Treating conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
Typical Healing Process
The healing process for subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually simple. Most heal within one to three weeks without treatment. The blood will change color like a bruise before it disappears.
Week | Healing Stage | Appearance |
1 | Initial | Bright red |
2 | Resolving | Yellowish or greenish |
3 | Final | Fading, almost normal |
Managing Discomfort and Appearance
It’s key to manage discomfort and appearance during recovery. Cold compresses and artificial tears can help. Also, avoid activities that might make it worse.
Understanding treatment and recovery can help patients manage their condition. Knowing when to seek more medical help is also important.
Complications and Recurrence Rates
It’s important to know about complications and how often subconjunctival hemorrhage comes back. This condition is usually not serious, but it can lead to big problems sometimes.
Potential Complications
Even though it’s rare, some serious issues can happen. Here are a few:
- Increased risk of future hemorrhages: If you’ve had one before, you might get another one.
- Underlying condition exacerbation: Sometimes, a hemorrhage is a sign of a bigger health issue that needs help.
- Eye damage: Rarely, bad or repeated hemorrhages can hurt your eye or affect your vision.
Statistics on Recurrence
About 10% of people without risk factors get another subconjunctival hemorrhage. This number can change if you have health problems or other risk factors.
Risk Factors for Repeated Episodes
Some things make you more likely to get another hemorrhage. These include:
- Hypertension: High blood pressure makes you more likely to get and get again.
- Blood disorders: Problems with blood clotting or blood vessel health can raise your risk.
- Age: As you get older, your blood vessels change, making you more prone to hemorrhages.
Knowing these risk factors and possible problems helps you handle your condition better. It can also lower the chance of more episodes.
When to Seek Medical Attention
We will guide you through when to seek medical attention for a subconjunctival hemorrhage. While many cases heal on their own, some symptoms and conditions need quick medical check-ups. This is to prevent complications or to find and treat any underlying issues.
Warning Signs and Red Flags
Certain symptoms with a subconjunctival hemorrhage mean you should see a doctor right away. These include:
- Vision changes or loss
- Severe eye pain
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Discharge or pus
- Fever
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s vital to talk to a healthcare professional.
Emergency Situations
In some cases, a subconjunctival hemorrhage might be a sign of a serious issue. If you have:
- Trauma to the eye
- Sudden vision loss
- Severe headache or double vision
Emergency situations need quick action to avoid long-term damage.
Follow-Up Care
Even if your subconjunctival hemorrhage heals on its own, getting follow-up care is key. Your healthcare provider may want to see you again to:
- Monitor the healing process
- Check for any complications
- Address any concerns or questions you may have
Follow-up care is a vital part of taking care of your eye health.
Conclusion: Living with and Managing Subconjunctival Hemorrhages
A burst blood vessel behind the eye might seem scary, but it’s usually not serious. We’ve talked about what causes it, how you’ll feel, and how to treat it. Now, let’s wrap up the main points and offer tips on handling this issue.
To live with subconjunctival hemorrhage, you need to know what it is and how to avoid it happening again. It’s important to watch out for things like high blood pressure, blood disorders, and diabetes. By changing your lifestyle and following doctor’s orders, you can lower your chances of it coming back.
If your symptoms don’t get better or get worse, you should see a doctor. Being proactive and taking the right steps can help you manage your condition well. With the right care, you can live with subconjunctival hemorrhage and keep your eyes healthy.
FAQ
What is a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
A subconjunctival hemorrhage is when blood gathers under the conjunctiva. This is the clear layer over the white part of the eye. It makes a bright red patch on the sclera.
What causes a burst blood vessel behind the eye?
A burst blood vessel behind the eye, or subconjunctival hemorrhage, can happen for several reasons. It might be due to physical trauma, straining, or spontaneous ruptures. It can also be caused by medical conditions like hypertension or blood disorders.
Is a subconjunctival hemorrhage serious?
Even though a subconjunctival hemorrhage looks scary, it’s usually not serious. It often goes away on its own. But, it might be a sign of a deeper issue that needs medical help.
How is a subconjunctival hemorrhage diagnosed?
A healthcare professional will examine your eye to diagnose a subconjunctival hemorrhage. They might also do tests to check for other serious conditions.
What are the treatment options for a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
For treatment, you can try self-care like using cold compresses. You just have to wait for it to heal on its own. Sometimes, you might need medical help to fix the underlying cause.
Can subconjunctival hemorrhages recur?
Yes, subconjunctival hemorrhages can happen again. This is more likely if you don’t deal with the cause. Knowing and managing your risk factors can help prevent it from happening again.
When should I seek medical attention for a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
See a doctor if you have severe pain, vision problems, or other symptoms like eye infection. Also, seek help if the hemorrhage is caused by severe trauma.
Are there any age-related factors that contribute to subconjunctival hemorrhage?
Yes, older adults are more likely to get subconjunctival hemorrhages. This is because their blood vessels get weaker with age, making them more likely to burst.
Can certain medications increase the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage?
Yes, some medicines like blood thinners, NSAIDs, and aspirin can raise the risk. They affect how blood clots, which can lead to a hemorrhage.
How can I manage discomfort and appearance after a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
Using cold compresses and waiting for it to heal can help with discomfort. The red patch will fade as your body absorbs the blood.
What are the possible complications of a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
While rare, complications can include underlying conditions like hypertension or diabetes. These need to be managed to avoid more problems.
References
National Center for Biotechnology Information. Evidence-Based Medical Guidance. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551666/
