Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

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 in the eye. The redness can increase over 24 to 48 hours, especially if you are taking aspirin or blood thinners.

How does it occur?

An injury to the eye can cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage. Many people remember having strained or coughed 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.