Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
Eye bleeding can look very alarming. Here’s an explanation of what causes it and what to do about it
A subconjunctival hemorrhage is bleeding under the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the white parts of the eye. It happens when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the subconjunctival space, which is between the conjunctiva (the mostly-transparent tissue wrapping the eye) and the sclera (the “whites” of the eye). Similar to a bruise on your skin, blood pools in the subconjunctival space, rather than under the skin, because there is no way for it to escape or drain and it takes a long time for the conjunctiva to absorb the blood away.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a bright red patch on the whites of the eye. It happens more commonly in people with diabetes or high blood pressure, but it can happen at any age or even after a major surgery. Subconjunctival hemorrhages can appear alarming and very serious, but the majority of cases are harmless. If you’re concerned about this type of bleeding, you should see your ophthalmologist. The condition will usually resolve itself in a week to ten days.
What causes subconjunctival hemorrhage?
The causes of subconjunctival aren’t always clear, but as mentioned, risk increases with systemic diseases and conditions, like hypertensive disease, diabetes and blood-clotting disorders. Subconjunctival hemorrhages may also be related to an eye injury or infection, or regular use of certain medicines or strenuous activities, such as playing sports, violent coughing or sneezing or vomiting. Subconjunctival hemorrhage can also be induced by the extreme straining during child birth.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage treatment
Treatment of subconjunctival hemorrhage is almost always to simply observe the condition. The condition will resolve on its own. If you’re concerned about this type of bleeding, or have had any decrease in vision, eye discharge or pain, or recurring hemorrhages, you should see your ophthalmologist. Other than the alarming appearance or a mild irritation or scratchy feeling in the eye, you should experience no symptoms. The condition will usually resolve itself in a week to ten days. Avoid roughly rubbing the eye, as this can slow the healing time.
Dr. Berger and Bay Area Eye Institute
Craig Berger, MD opened the Bay Area Eye Institute in Tampa, Florida in 2007, specializing in the treatment of dry eye disease, corneal conditions, cataract and cornea transplant surgery.
Along with Dr. Berger, Gamell and Kerris, treat and manage a large spectrum of eye conditions and diseases at Bay Area Eye Institute. They accept most health insurances and will accommodate quick new-patient appointments.
The practice focuses on patient satisfaction. Their philosophy is to put the patient first, provide physical and emotional comfort, and strive for the highest care possible. Your time and comfort are paramount. They feel that patient education is an important aspect of treatment and will take the time to explain ocular conditions and treatment plans.
The Bay Area Eye Institute facility employs state-of-the-art technology and careful testing is conducted to accurately diagnose and tailor your treatment to suit you and your lifestyle. They utilize the most modern surgical techniques and technology for cataract, cornea transplantation, and glaucoma and eyelid surgery along with the latest astigmatic and presbyopia correcting intraocular lenses.
Bay Area Eye Institute is conveniently located in north Tampa and is easy to get to from all Tampa Bay area counties. They are open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday-Thursday and 1:00 to 5:00 on Friday. Call them today and ask about setting up a cataract surgery evaluation with Dr. Berger. (813) 265-6940
