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Huseman Eye Care

Valley West Office

(515) 224-9681

Merle Hay Office

515.278.1653

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  • Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

  • Created in Common Eye Conditions, Changes in Appearance

subconjunctival hemorrhage

Similar to a bruise under the skin, a subconjunctival hemorrhage happens when a small blood vessel located between the sclera (white portion of an eye) and the conjunctiva (lining on the surface of an eye) breaks and covers the sclera with blood. Unlike broken blood vessels located under the skin which take on shades of black, blue, and green, a subconjunctival hemorrhage located under the clear conjunctiva has a bright red appearance initially, and slowly fades to orange and yellow, as the tissue of the eye absorbs the blood.

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage Symptoms

Usually painless upon occurrence, a subconjunctival hemorrhage typically goes unnoticed until the individual looks in the mirror or someone else points out the red spot on the eye. Subconjunctival hemorrhage has few symptoms, and mostly affects a person's appearance and sometimes self-esteem. The hemorrhage, however, can cause a full sensation on the surface of the eye or a feeling of eye awareness when blinking. It can also cause slight irritation or a feeling of grittiness. Subconjunctival hemorrhage should not affect vision, cause pain, or lead to any changes in eye discharge.

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage Causes and Risk Factors

The specific cause of subconjunctival hemorrhage is not always apparent. Extremely delicate, the blood vessels of the eyes rupture easily and can break under the pressure of a powerful sneeze, violent coughing, vomiting, or strain from activities like weight lifting. Subconjunctival hemorrhage can also result from an injury to the eye in cases of excessive eye rubbing, inserting contact lenses, or through some other trauma. In addition, a viral or bacterial infection of the eye such as conjunctivitis can cause a subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Certain medications or medical conditions can predispose an individual to recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages. These conditions include diabetes, high blood pressure or hypertension, blood clotting disorders, and blood thinning medications like aspirin or Coumadin.

Diagnosis and Treatment

An eye care professional will diagnose subconjunctival hemorrhage by observation. If a trauma or injury to the eye is pinpointed as the cause of the subconjunctival hemorrhage, a more comprehensive eye exam will be necessary to check for further damage. Like bruises on the skin, subconjunctival hemorrhages clear up on their own without additional treatment. The blood will eventually absorb back into the eye and disappear. If caused by an infection or underlying medical condition, treatment for that underlying medical problem will be necessary.

  • Common Eye Conditions
    • Age-Related
    • Eye Lids
    • Cognitive and Acquired
    • Vision Impairment
    • Injury & Irritation
    • Changes in Appearance
  • Contact Lenses
  • Eye Diseases
  • Eyeglasses
    • Eyeglass Lenses
  • Eye Symptoms
  • How the Eyes Work
    • Basic Visual Skills
  • Pediatric Vision
  • Protecting Your Eyes
  • Visual Rehabilitation
  • Vision Problems
  • What is Vision Therapy
  • Vision Therapy Programs
  • We Can Help With
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    • Corneal Disorders
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Merle Hay Office: 515-278-1653

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office: 515-224-9681

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office : 515.224.9681

Our offices are conveniently located in the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines and the Valley West Mall in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Testimonials

Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients

    I decided to get my eyes checked on a whim while I was at the mall and they were able to fit me in. The tech who worked with me worked quickly yet carefully. Dr. Brown was very kind, professional, and knowledgeable.

    Rachel S.

    Super friendly, helpful and efficient staff and Dr. Brown is always great to work with. I am very happy with the care and services at this office.

    Beth R.

    Had an exam yesterday, everyone was very nice. I also had my rowdy 3-year old and they were so patient as he was very curious to what was going on, they had crayons and paper for him. Dr. Katie was who I saw and she explained everything so well I had no problem understanding what she was telling me. I was impressed with how quickly I was able to see her since this was my first visit and check in went quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone looking for a comfortable atmospher

    Ashley B.

    I was able to schedule a same day appointment which was very convenient. The technician was very helpful and explained all the tests that were performed. Dr. Brown was fast, efficient, and very through with my eye exam. I will continue to trust Huseman for my eye health.

    Marqui B.

    It is always a pleasant experience working with Dr. Soults and Dr. Brown at the Valley West clinic.

    Shane O.

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