Differential Diagnosis for Popped Microvascular Blood Vessels around Eyes after Vomiting
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Vomit-induced subconjunctival hemorrhage: This condition occurs when the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eyes) rupture due to increased pressure, such as during intense vomiting. The symptoms match the description provided, making it the most plausible explanation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses + Hypertension: High blood pressure can cause the small blood vessels around the eyes to rupture, leading to hemorrhages. If the vomiting was severe enough to significantly elevate blood pressure, this could be a contributing factor. + Trauma: Direct trauma to the eye area could also cause microvascular blood vessels to rupture. If the vomiting was accompanied by or followed by a fall or direct impact to the face, trauma should be considered. + Coughing or straining: Similar to vomiting, intense coughing or straining can increase pressure in the thoracic cavity, leading to increased venous pressure and potential rupture of small blood vessels around the eyes.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Although less directly related to the symptoms described, a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding into the space surrounding the brain) can sometimes present with vomiting and could potentially lead to increased intrathoracic pressure causing peripheral hemorrhages. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. + Malignant hypertension: Severely elevated blood pressure can lead to organ damage and is a medical emergency. If the popped blood vessels are part of a broader picture of severely elevated blood pressure, this diagnosis must be considered and addressed promptly.
- Rare Diagnoses + Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid (a particular type of protein) in various tissues of the body, which can lead to weakening of blood vessel walls and increased risk of rupture. However, this would be an uncommon cause of the symptoms described. + Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A group of disorders that affect connective tissues supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues. Defects in connective tissues cause the signs and symptoms of these conditions, which can include fragile blood vessels prone to rupture. This is a rare genetic condition and would be an unusual cause of the described symptoms.