Subconjunctival hemorrhage

Subconjunctival hemorrhage is an accumulation of blood underneath the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. Usually, small amounts of blood appear but then begin to spread to a large portion of the eye. As the blood resobs, you may see a yellowish tinge in the area. It usually takes about two weeks for complete resorption.
Subconjunctival Hemorrahage Clinical Photo

Usually, small amounts of blood appear but then begin to spread to a large portion of the eye. As the blood resobs, you may see a yellowish tinge in the area. It usually takes about two weeks for complete resorption.

Causes & risk factors

  • Blood vessel has broken, but most times the cause of the broken blood vessel is not known.
  • May be from increasing pressure in the head from straining, lifting heavy objects or vomiting.
  • May rarely be due to blood clotting disorder.

Symptoms

There can be little no symptoms for a subconjunctival hemorrhage. At most, a patient would feel like there was something in the eye. The presence of blood or a yellowish tinge in the eye could be seen.

Diagnosis

  • Straightforward diagnosis when looking in the mirror and no pain.
  • Comprehensive examination required if there have been multiple episodes.

Treatment

There is no treatment required for the eye. But if multiple episodes occur, a doctor of optometry would need to complete a comprehensive eye exam and may recommend a physical and blood work completed to rule out underlying medical issue.

Prevention

There is no prevention for this eye condition.

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