Health Fitness

A burst blood vessel in eye is a common eye problem that can have various factors associated with it. Though it looks dramatic due to the presence of a red patch in the eye, it does not cause any serious harm. To know what causes burst blood vessel in eye and how it is cured, read on...

A burst blood vessel in eye or subconjunctival hemorrhage is a leak of blood from a blood vessel, over the white of the eye (sclera). It primarily occurs when a small blood vessel breaks just beneath the clear surface of the eye called conjunctiva. The conjunctiva comprises of many small, fragile blood vessels that can be easily ruptured or broken. When this occurs, the blood leaks into the space between the conjunctiva and sclera. Since conjunctiva cannot absorb blood instantly, the blood gets trapped underneath it and a bright red or dark patch develops on the white of the eye. Though a burst blood vessel in eye sounds frightening, it is normally harmless and disappears within 10 to 14 days. More on popped blood vessel in eye.

Burst Blood Vessel in Eye: Causes

Although actual causes of subconjunctival hemorrhage are still unknown, some of the most probable causes that may contribute to burst blood vessel in eye are:

    * Violent coughing, powerful sneezing, heavy lifting or vomiting can cause a small blood vessel to rupture in the eye.
    * Sleeping disorders or excessive intake of anticoagulants or aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), etc., can increase the risks of having burst blood vessel in eye.
    * High doses of vitamin E, fish oil or botanicals like garlic or cayenne along with the standard dosage of dietary supplements can also be a common causes for this eye problem.
    * People suffering high blood pressure, diabetes or conjunctivitis (an eye infection) are also prone to suffer from burst blood vessel of eye.
    * An injury to the eye or gentle bumping the eye or something as severe as being struck in the eye with a sharp object can also lead to subconjunctival hemorrhage.
    * Another probable cause of burst blood vessel in eye can be excessive retention of blood in the eye due to glaucoma, fatigue, an allergic reaction or eye infection, causing swelling of the blood vessels.

Burst Blood Vessel in Eye: Symptoms

The most prominent and obvious sign of a subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red or dark patch on the white (sclera) of the eye. Despite its bloody appearance, it causes no change in vision and no discharge from eye. Although there is no pain associated with it, the only discomfort one may experience is slight irritation, scratchiness, itchiness and stinginess on the surface of the eye.

Burst Blood Vessel in Eye: Treatment

In most cases, no treatment is needed for a subconjunctival hemorrhage. However, over-the-counter eye drops such as artificial tears, can be applied to the eye if mild irritation or scratchy sensation is present. Intake of aspirin or other medications that inhibit clotting should be avoided. If the subconjunctival hemorrhage is trauma related or due to an external infection, the ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotic drops or an ointment. Hence, the condition clears by itself within one to two weeks without any long term problems, just like a mild bruise under the skin.

One can prevent recurrences of burst blood vessel in eye by taking vitamin C, 200 mg a day, grape seed extract or pycnogenol containing antioxidant pigments to strengthen the walls of the tiny blood vessels in the eye. But if you experience pain, bleeding disorders or any changes in vision due to subconjunctival hemorrhage, it is recommended to consult an ophthalmologist to determine the underlying cause and prescribe necessary treatment.

BZ