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Blood in Your Eye?Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Noticing a bright red patch in your eye can be startling it might even look like your eye is completely filled with blood. While it may seem serious, this condition, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, is usually harmless. The tiny blood vessels beneath the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the eye) are delicate and can rupture from even minor pressure changes, like a sneeze, cough, or strain. According to the National Eye Institute, these hemorrhages often appear dramatic but rarely require medical treatment unless they come with pain, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms.

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What’s Causing the Red Spot in Your Eye? Understanding, Causes, and When to Seek Help

What Triggers a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage? Uncovering the Causes


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What Causes a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage? A Closer Look at the Triggers

A subconjunctival hemorrhage may look alarming, but it’s usually harmless. However, some lifestyle habits and underlying health conditions can make these small blood vessel ruptures more common or more severe. Factors like frequent eye rubbing, high blood pressure, certain medications, or even sudden sneezing or coughing can contribute to these red patches in the eye. Understanding what might be causing them can help you prevent future occurrences and keep your eyes healthy.

How to Treat a Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: What You Need to Know

A subconjunctival hemorrhage usually heals on its own within one to two weeks without treatment. However, if you experience pain, vision changes, or frequent recurrences, see an eye doctor. Using artificial tears, avoiding eye rubbing, and managing health conditions can help prevent future episodes.

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At ReFocus Eye Health Cheshire, we are dedicated to exceptional vision care, offering a full range of services from routine eye exams to advanced surgical treatments. Our top-rated team of specialists, including board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrists, brings decades of experience in treating cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eye, and retinal conditions.

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    For urgent eye issues or emergencies, Refocus Eye Health strongly recommends calling a location nearest to you. Emergency eye care may constitute any of the following: 1. vision loss; 2. different size pupils; 3. double vision; 4. bleeding from the eye; 5. Swelling; 6. eye pain that doesn't lessen on its own; and/ or 7. eye pain accompanied by a headache. If you experience any of the following issues above, we recommend that you seek immediate medical attention.

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