SUBCONJUNCTIVAL HAEMORRHAGE

In sports a subconjunctival haemorrhage can occur as the result of an impact to the eye. It involves damage to the blood vessels in the conjunctiva membrane that coats the white of the eyeball. The condition is generally not a major cause for concern but can point to other injuries caused by a blow to the head or eye, and may also be more severe if associated with a bleeding disorder.

Symptoms

You will notice a substantial red splodge of blood over the white of the eye (the sclera). This can be light or dark and ranges in size, with the possibility of covering the entire sclera. Other symptoms vary, and this visible blood is regularly the only noticeable indicator. The bleeding is rarely accompanied by pain, though a feeling of heaviness or irritation may be apparent. It will not bleed out of the eye, and should reduce in size after the first day or two.

Causes

Trauma directly to the eye or the surrounding area can sometimes lead to a subconjunctival haemorrhage. A blow sustained to the head is also a risk factor. In other cases the injury appears to arrive without definite reason, often noticed upon waking up. Excessive strain to the eye, prolonged rubbing, or an underlying condition provoking abnormal bleeding are other common causes. Vomiting or coughing fits can cause a haemorrhage, and high blood pressure occasionally contributes to the injury.

Seeking Medical Advice

The condition usually resolves itself but it is best to consult a medical professional regardless. Signs that the injury may be more serious and require attention include pain, visual impairment (including blurriness), or the simultaneous occurrence of subconjunctival haemorrhages in both eyes. See a doctor if the injury was sustained after trauma, in order to rule out other conditions. Repeated haemorrhages should also be reported, or if the injury does not heal within two weeks. Any prior blood conditions may be related and you should seek immediate medical care, especially if suffering from a clotting disorder.

Treatment

Often merely waiting for the injury to heal is treatment enough, though you should rest by refraining from activities that involve the possibility of worsening the injury. A doctor will assess whether the haemorrhage is related to any other injuries, particularly if a strike to the head was involved, and can prescribe suitable treatment accordingly. If the injury is isolated then there is no need to stop training as long as it is carried out responsibly. In general the condition heals without any lasting effects, acting in much the same way as a bruise. Do not be concerned if the haemorrhage appears to change colour.

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