A subconjunctival hemorrhage, often referred to as a broken blood vessel in the eye, can look alarming but is usually harmless. It occurs when a tiny blood vessel bursts just beneath the clear surface of your eye, leading to a red or bloodshot appearance. While the condition typically resolves on its own without medical treatment, there are several self-care strategies you can follow to ensure a comfortable recovery and prevent future occurrences.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of subconjunctival hemorrhage, how to care for your eye at home, and when to seek medical attention.
1. Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
Why It Matters: Understanding what causes a subconjunctival hemorrhage can help you take appropriate steps to manage it and prevent it from happening again. The condition is generally painless and does not affect vision, but knowing its triggers can provide peace of mind.
Common Causes:
Straining: Activities that involve straining, such as heavy lifting, coughing, sneezing, or vomiting, can cause blood vessels in the eye to burst.Injury: A minor injury or trauma to the eye, even from something as simple as rubbing your eye too hard, can result in a subconjunctival hemorrhage.Medications: Blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and certain supplements, can increase the likelihood of bleeding.Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes can make blood vessels more susceptible to breaking.2. Immediate Self-Care Steps
Why It Matters: Although a subconjunctival hemorrhage generally heals on its own, there are steps you can take to manage discomfort and support the healing process.
Self-Care Tips:
Avoid Rubbing Your Eye: Rubbing your eye can irritate the delicate tissues and potentially worsen the hemorrhage. Avoid touching your eye as much as possible.Use Artificial Tears: If your eye feels dry or irritated, over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief. These eye drops help to lubricate the eye and soothe any mild discomfort.Apply a Cold Compress: For the first day or two after the hemorrhage occurs, you can apply a cold compress to the affected eye to reduce any potential swelling. Use a clean cloth with ice wrapped inside and gently apply it to the closed eyelid.Switch to Warm Compress: After the initial 48 hours, you may switch to a warm compress to help the blood reabsorb more quickly. Simply use a clean, warm (not hot) cloth and place it over your closed eye for a few minutes several times a day.3. Monitoring Your Condition
Why It Matters: Keeping an eye on your symptoms can help you determine if the condition is resolving as expected or if you need to seek medical advice.
What to Monitor:
Size and Color of the Hemorrhage: A subconjunctival hemorrhage will gradually change color, from bright red to yellow or green as it heals, similar to a bruise. If you notice the redness spreading or not fading over time, consider consulting a healthcare professional.Vision Changes: A subconjunctival hemorrhage typically does not affect your vision. If you experience any changes in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or sensitivity to light, seek medical attention immediately.Pain or Discomfort: While the condition is usually painless, mild discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the eye is possible. However, if you experience significant pain, it could indicate a more serious issue requiring medical evaluation.4. Preventing Future Subconjunctival Hemorrhages
Why It Matters: Preventive measures can reduce the likelihood of experiencing another subconjunctival hemorrhage. By making small adjustments to your lifestyle and being mindful of your eye health, you can lower your risk.
Preventive Strategies:
Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can increase the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhages. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and follow your healthcare provider’s advice to keep it within a healthy range.Be Gentle with Your Eyes: Avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously. If your eyes are itchy or irritated, use artificial tears or antihistamine eye drops instead of rubbing.Avoid Straining: Try to avoid activities that cause excessive straining. If you need to sneeze or cough, try to do so gently.Check Medication Side Effects: If you are on blood-thinning medications, talk to your doctor about your risk for subconjunctival hemorrhages. Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider.5. When to Seek Medical Attention
Why It Matters: While a subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually harmless, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Knowing when to seek medical advice is crucial for your eye health.
Signs to Seek Medical Attention:
Recurrent Hemorrhages: If you experience frequent subconjunctival hemorrhages, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.Accompanying Symptoms: If your hemorrhage is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, vision changes, or significant swelling, you should seek medical attention immediately.Slow Healing: If your hemorrhage does not show signs of improvement after two weeks, or if the condition seems to worsen, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.Conclusion
A subconjunctival hemorrhage can be alarming to see, but it is typically a benign condition that resolves on its own. By practicing proper self-care, monitoring your symptoms, and taking preventive measures, you can manage the condition effectively and support your recovery. Remember to be gentle with your eyes, keep them lubricated, and seek medical advice if you notice any concerning changes. With the right care, your eye should return to its normal appearance in no time.
The article was prepared by Lyle Gardner.
