A subconjunctival hematoma is a painless collection of blood in the eye caused by a ruptured blood vessel. It usually disappears within two weeks, but persistent or recurring hematomas may indicate an underlying health problem and require medical evaluation. Hematomas can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and minor eye injuries. Medical attention is necessary if the hematoma is accompanied by vision impairment, pain, or bleeding elsewhere in the body.
A subconjunctival hematoma is a visible collection of blood in the eye that results from a ruptured blood vessel. It occurs specifically in the subconjunctival space along the white of the eye, under the conjunctival layer. Most subconjunctival hematomas are painless and do not disturb vision. They usually disappear in about two weeks without any special kind of personal care or medical treatment. A hematoma that persists for more than two weeks or recurs frequently can be a sign of an underlying health problem and should be evaluated by a doctor.
The blood vessels in the subconjunctival space are relatively delicate. They can rupture and bleed for a variety of different reasons. A subconjunctival hematoma can occur after a forceful sneeze, cough, vomiting, or minor eye injury. Sometimes, all it takes is rubbing an itchy eye to rupture a blood vessel. Other potential causes and risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, and eye surgery.
Unless the hematoma is caused by an eye injury, it is likely to be completely painless. A bright red spot appears on the white of the eye and spreads as more blood is shed. Because the blood vessel rupture is under the outer membrane of the eye, the pool of blood cannot be washed away with water or dabbed with a tissue.
Most hematomas get bigger in the first day or two and slowly shrink over a week or two. Like a skin bruise, a subconjunctival hematoma lasts only long enough for the underlying tissue to absorb all the leaked blood. The spot typically becomes lighter in color as it heals, changing from a bright red to a yellow-orange tint. After the two-week mark, the whites of the eye are usually back to normal.
It is important to visit an ophthalmologist if a subconjunctival hematoma is accompanied by vision impairment, pain or bleeding elsewhere in the body. Medical attention is also needed if the bruises appear in both eyes at the same time or if the red patch fails to fade after a couple of weeks. The ophthalmologist can examine the eye and perform other tests, if necessary, to determine the underlying cause. A patient with pain may be prescribed soothing artificial tears or anti-inflammatory drugs. Other problems like high blood pressure and diabetes are treated appropriately with medications.
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