Blood in the eye

superficial, located between the sclera and the conjunctiva; the result is an appreciable bleeding as a red spot localized in the "white part" of the eye (ocular sclera).

In the medical field, we speak more correctly of subconjunctival hemorrhage (or hyposphagma): subconjunctival is the term used to describe the space located just below the conjunctiva (the transparent surface of the "eye), while"hemorrhage"refers to the rupture of a blood vessel.

In most cases, the blood loss in the eye is harmless and does not cause vision problems or significant discomfort, despite its visible appearance. Subconjunctival hemorrhage can be caused by sudden increases in pressure, such as violent sneezing or blows. cough. Rupture of capillaries can also occur in people who have high blood pressure or who are taking blood thinners.

In most cases, treatment is unnecessary. Blood in the eye usually resolves spontaneously within 1 to 3 weeks.

, evident in the space between the conjunctiva and the sclera (the white part of the eye), many patients describe a scratchy sensation.

The blood initially appears bright red under the transparent conjunctival surface. Later, the bleeding may spread and turn green or yellow, similar to a bruise. The pain is generally nonexistent or minimal and there is no change in vision.

(They are usually seen when the eye is inflamed.) These vessels are quite fragile and their walls can break easily.

Blood loss in the eye can occasionally be caused by a sneeze or a severe cough. In other cases, it can be due to choking, heavy lifting, vigorous eye rubbing, and vomiting. However, blood in the eye can also be caused by more serious conditions: blunt trauma, skull fracture, increased intracranial or intraocular pressure, high blood pressure, or bleeding disorders. Occasionally, blood loss in the eye can also be a sign of other types of potentially serious eye disease, especially if associated with ocular discharge (eye infection). In addition, subconjunctival hemorrhage can appear as a minor postoperative complication in refractive surgery (example: LASIK).

Several factors can increase the risk of a blood vessel rupture in the eye. For example, this can be a side effect of blood thinning medications, such as aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and warfarin. Although rare, St. John's wort, ginkgo biloba, ginger, and cayenne pepper can increase the risk of bleeding when taken in high doses.

or bleeding, more specific diagnostic tests may be needed.

. Artificial tears can also help reduce any irritation.

Patients on aspirin or anticoagulant therapy should see their doctor to determine if it is safe to continue taking these drugs. If the subconjunctival hemorrhage is due to trauma, additional medical measures may be needed to promote recovery. If an infection is present, antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be prescribed.

Typically, blood loss in the eye is self-limited and resolves in two to three weeks, with no long-term complications.

, it is useful to wear protective goggles whenever exposure to environments with volatile particles (such as dust) and intense sunlight is expected. If recurrent blood loss occurs in the eye, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out a bleeding disorder.