Subconjunctival Haemorrhage (Burst Blood Vessel in the Eye)
A sudden bright-red patch on the white of your eye can look alarming, but in many cases it is caused by a subconjunctival haemorrhage, commonly described as a burst or broken blood vessel in the eye.
A subconjunctival haemorrhage occurs when a tiny blood vessel beneath the conjunctiva—the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye—breaks and releases a small amount of blood. The blood becomes trapped beneath the transparent surface, creating a clearly visible red patch.
Although the appearance can be dramatic, a subconjunctival haemorrhage is usually painless, does not affect vision and is not dangerous.
What Does a Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Look Like?
The most noticeable symptom is usually a sharply defined red or blood-coloured patch on the white of the eye.
It may appear suddenly, sometimes when you first wake up, and can become larger over the first day or two before gradually clearing.
Unlike many other causes of a red eye, a simple subconjunctival haemorrhage usually does not cause:
Eye pain
Discharge
Significant irritation
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to light
As the blood is naturally absorbed, the colour may change before the eye returns to its normal appearance.
What Causes a Burst Blood Vessel in the Eye?
Sometimes there is no obvious cause. The tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva are fragile and can break following a relatively minor increase in pressure.
Possible triggers include:
Coughing or sneezing
Straining during bowel movements
Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
Vomiting
Rubbing the eyes
Minor eye trauma
Eye surgery or injections
High blood pressure
Blood-thinning medications
Dry eyes
A subconjunctival haemorrhage can also occur spontaneously, particularly as we get older.
Is a Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Dangerous?
In most cases, no.
The blood is beneath the conjunctiva rather than inside the eye itself. It does not usually damage the eye or affect your vision.
The appearance can be frightening, especially when the red area is large, but i will check the retina (back of the eye ) for burst blood vessels too
How Long Does a Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Take to Heal?
Most subconjunctival haemorrhages clear within one to two weeks, although a larger area of bleeding can take longer.
The red patch may change colour as the blood is gradually broken down and absorbed. This is similar to the way a bruise changes colour as it heals.
There is usually no need to do anything to make the blood disappear.
Does a Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Need Treatment?
Usually, no specific treatment is required.
If the eye feels slightly dry or irritated, lubricating eye drops may provide comfort.
It is generally best to avoid rubbing the eye while it is healing.
If you experience repeated episodes of subconjunctival haemorrhage, your doctor may want to check for contributing factors such as high blood pressure, medication effects or an underlying bleeding tendency.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
Although a simple subconjunctival haemorrhage is usually harmless, not every red eye is caused by a burst blood vessel.
You should seek an eye assessment if you have:
Eye pain
Blurred or reduced vision
Significant sensitivity to light
A history of significant eye injury or trauma
A very extensive area of bleeding following trauma
Recurrent subconjunctival haemorrhages
Unusual bleeding or bruising elsewhere on the body
A red eye that does not improve as expected
Other symptoms that concern you
Following significant eye trauma, a large area of blood around the eye should be assessed promptly because more serious eye injuries can sometimes occur.
Can a Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Be Prevented?
It depends on the cause.
Treating dry or itchy eyes. managing conditions such as high blood pressure,and avoiding unnecessary eye rubbing will reduce the risk.
If you experience repeated episodes, an eye doctor can assess your eyes and determine whether further investigation is appropriate.
Subconjunctival Haemorrhage
At The Eye Clinic by Dr Cheryl Lee, we assess patients with red eyes and other eye conditions to determine whether the redness is due to a harmless subconjunctival haemorrhage or another condition requiring treatment.
If you suddenly develop a red patch on the white of your eye and are unsure of the cause, an eye examination can provide reassurance and ensure that there is no more serious problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a burst blood vessel in the eye serious?
Usually not. A burst blood vessel, or subconjunctival haemorrhage, is generally harmless and clears naturally. However, pain, vision changes or significant trauma should be assessed by an eye doctor.
Can stress cause a burst blood vessel in the eye?
Stress itself is not usually considered a direct cause. However, activities associated with increased pressure—such as coughing, sneezing, straining or heavy lifting—can contribute to a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
Can high blood pressure cause blood in the white of the eye?
High blood pressure can be associated with subconjunctival haemorrhage. If you experience recurrent episodes, it is sensible to have your blood pressure checked.
Can I still wear contact lenses?
If your eye is irritated or uncomfortable, it is generally better to avoid contact lenses until the eye feels normal. If you have pain, discharge or blurred vision, you should have the eye assessed.
Can I exercise with a subconjunctival haemorrhage?
A simple subconjunctival haemorrhage does not usually prevent normal activities. However, if it occurred after heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, you may wish to reduce strenuous activity temporarily, particularly if the haemorrhage is recurrent.
Will the red patch affect my vision?
A typical subconjunctival haemorrhage occurs on the surface of the eye and should not affect vision. If your vision is blurred or reduced, the redness may have another cause and you should have an eye examination.
Why did I wake up with a red eye?
A subconjunctival haemorrhage can occur during sleep and may only become noticeable when you wake up. Sometimes there is no identifiable trigger.