From the Research
A broken blood vessel in the eye, also known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, typically doesn't require medical treatment and will heal on its own within 1-2 weeks. For comfort, you can use artificial tears like Refresh or Systane 3-4 times daily if the eye feels irritated. Avoid rubbing the eye and consider taking a break from contact lenses until it heals. If you're on blood thinners or have high blood pressure, continue your medications as prescribed. While the bright red appearance can be alarming, it's generally harmless and occurs when small blood vessels near the eye's surface break, allowing blood to pool under the clear conjunctiva. Some key points to consider:
- Seek medical attention if you experience pain, vision changes, the hemorrhage doesn't improve within two weeks, or if these hemorrhages occur repeatedly, as this could indicate an underlying condition requiring evaluation 1.
- The management of vitreous haemorrhage is dependent on the most likely cause in a particular patient, and appropriate management may include immediate surgical removal of blood or improving vision to allow a full examination of the underlying retina 2.
- Anti-VEGF injections have been shown to be effective in treating various eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion, and may be considered as an alternative to laser photocoagulation therapy in some cases 3, 4, 5, 1. It's essential to note that the evidence from the studies provided is not directly related to the treatment of subconjunctival hemorrhage, but rather to other conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion. However, the general principles of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, and considering the underlying cause of the hemorrhage, are still applicable.