What is a subconjunctival hemorrhage?
A subconjunctival hemorrhage is a harmless condition that happens
when a small blood vessel breaks in the white part of the eye and
makes it bright red. There is usually a patch or line of redness
on the white part of the eye. The redness can increase over 24 to
48 hours, especially if you are taking aspirin or blood thinners.
How does it occur?
A direct injury to the eye can cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage.
Many people remember having strained (coughing, vomiting,
sneezing, or a bowel movement) shortly before they noticed the
redness. Being on blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin may
increase the risk. However, most of the time, there is no clear
cause for it.
What are the symptoms?
You will probably not know you have it unless you look in a mirror
or someone tells you that your eye is red. Some people have a mild
scratchy feeling in the eye. It should not affect your vision.
How is it diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will look at your eye. Usually no tests
are needed. If it happens to you a lot, a blood test may be done
to check for a bleeding problem.
How is it treated?
Usually, no treatment is needed. The blood becomes absorbed over
time and the eye becomes clear again. The scratchy feeling can be
treated with artificial tears (eyedrops).
How long will the effects last?
In most cases, the redness in your eye goes away in 1 to 3 weeks.
The affected part of your eye often turns yellow before it turns
white again.
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change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
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information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
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this information or your medical condition.