Blood in Bottom of Eye: What You Need to Know

03 Aug 2024
us
Murphy

Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed a bright red spot in your eye? While it can be alarming to see what looks like blood in the white part of your eye, it’s often a harmless condition called a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This occurs when a tiny blood vessel breaks just beneath the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of your eye.

Although generally painless and harmless, noticing blood in the bottom of your eye naturally raises concerns. This article will explain the causes, symptoms, and when you should seek medical attention for a subconjunctival hemorrhage. We'll also explore other potential reasons for seeing blood in your eye and when it might signal a more serious condition.

The sight of blood in your eye, even if painless, can be jarring. It's essential to understand what might be happening and when to seek medical advice. This way, you can feel empowered to take care of your eye health and address any potential concerns promptly.

Subconjunctival hemorrhages are incredibly common. While they might look alarming, they often resolve on their own, much like a bruise on your skin. However, there are instances where a subconjunctival hemorrhage might indicate an underlying health condition or require medical attention. Understanding the difference between a harmless instance and a potentially concerning one is crucial.

This article aims to equip you with the information you need to understand why you might see blood in the bottom of your eye, what to do about it, and when to consult a healthcare professional. Keep reading to learn more about this common eye condition and put your mind at ease.

What Causes Blood in the Bottom of Your Eye?

There are several reasons why you might find blood in the bottom of your eye, with subconjunctival hemorrhage being the most common. Here are some typical causes:

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage:

Straining: Activities like intense coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or even straining during bowel movements can cause a spike in blood pressure, leading to a broken blood vessel in the eye.

Trauma: A minor injury to the eye, such as rubbing your eye too hard or getting hit by a ball, can cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Medications: Certain medications, especially blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin, can increase the risk of bleeding, including in the eye.

High Blood Pressure: While not always the case, uncontrolled high blood pressure can contribute to subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Bleeding Disorders: People with bleeding disorders like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease may experience subconjunctival hemorrhage more frequently.

Other Potential Causes:

While less common, other conditions can also cause bleeding in the eye. These include:

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Certain types of conjunctivitis, particularly viral conjunctivitis, can cause bleeding in the white of the eye.

Corneal Ulcer: An open sore on the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, can bleed.

Uveitis: Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea) can sometimes lead to bleeding.

When to See a Doctor

Most subconjunctival hemorrhages are harmless and resolve independently within a week or two. However, it's crucial to contact your doctor or ophthalmologist if you experience any of the following:

Pain in the eye

Changes in vision

Bleeding that doesn't improve within two weeks

Frequent recurrences of subconjunctival hemorrhage

Bleeding accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, swelling, or light sensitivity.

Preventing Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

While not all causes are preventable, here are a few tips to reduce your risk:

Manage Blood Pressure: Keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.

Protect Your Eyes: Wear protective eyewear during sports or activities that could cause eye injury.

Avoid Eye Rubbing: Rubbing your eyes can irritate them and increase the risk of a broken blood vessel.

Manage Underlying Conditions: If you have a bleeding disorder or other medical condition, follow your doctor's recommendations for treatment and management.

Addressing Concerns

Finding blood in your eye can be disconcerting, but it's usually a harmless condition that clears up independently. If you experience any pain, vision changes, or if the bleeding persists, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying problems. Taking preventive measures and understanding the potential causes can help you feel more informed and confident about your eye health. Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice when in doubt.