You
have been diagnosed as having a sub-conjunctival
haemorrhage, sometimes known as a 'sub-conj
haemorrhage' for short.
What it is
The
front, white part of the eye, known as the
sclera, is covered by a transparent membrane
called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva has
a rich blood supply. A sub-conjunctival haemorrhage
occurs when these tiny blood vessels leak,
causing a small amount of blood to gather
between the sclera and conjunctiva. Because
these membranes are transparent this condition
looks very serious, but it is not. It will
not interfere with your sight. This is the
same process which causes bruising, which
is a small bleed in between the layers of
the skin.
Signs and Symptoms
The eye
will look very bloodshot and you may have
a feeling of ‘tightness’ in
the affected eye
Causes
Coughing, knocking your eye, or rubbing
it extremely hard.
Diabetes or high blood pressure.
Aspirin or warfarin.
Practically all sub-conjunctival haemorrhages
occur for no reason. In most cases it
does not mean you have an illness or eye
condition.
Treatment
Apart from an eye examination, we will
also check your blood pressure and give
you a routine test for diabetes.
It does not require treatment.
The bloodshot appearance should go
in 7 to 14 days.
