SUBCONJUNCTIVAL HAEMORRHAGE

Bleeding into the white of the eye (subconjunctival haemorrhage) is caused a burst conjunctival blood vessel. Part or all of the white of the eye becomes bright red.

Subconjunctival haemorrhages are painless & harmless.

They are very common, particularly in the elderly.

What causes a subconjunctival haemorrhage?

In the majority of cases there is no apparent cause & they can occur spontaneously.

Subconjunctival haemorrhages can also be caused by trauma, prolonged coughing, sneezing or vomiting.

Recurrent or bilateral (both eyes) subconjunctival haemorrhage suggests high blood pressure or abnormal blood clotting.

What are the symptoms?

There are usually no symptoms, but it can look quite alarming when you see it in the mirror. However, it looks worse than it is.

Vision is not affected.

What treatment is required?

No treatment is required.

A subconjunctival haemorrhage will gradually disappear over 2 weeks as the blood is reabsorbed by the body (just like a bruise).

You should see a doctor:

- if there is pain
- if there has been trauma to the eye
- if you are taking anticoagulant medicine (eg. warfarin)
- if you have recurrent subconjunctival haemorrhages