Don’t Take Blood Vessel Break In Eye Lightly

A blood vessel break in the eye, also known as a subconjunctival haemorrhage, occurs when a small blood vessel beneath the clear surface of the eye (the conjunctiva) bursts, causing blood to leak into the surrounding area. Although it may seem alarming at first, this condition is usually harmless and often resolves on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help individuals manage the situation better and know when to seek medical advice.

Causes of Blood Vessel Break in Eye

A broken blood vessel in the eye can be caused by several factors, most of which are not serious. Common causes include:

1. Straining or Coughing: Any activity that increases pressure in the head, such as heavy lifting, sneezing, or even intense coughing, can cause a blood vessel to burst.
2. Trauma or Injury: An impact to the eye, whether from a sport, an accident, or even rubbing the eye too hard, can rupture a blood vessel.
3. High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can weaken blood vessels in the eyes, making them more prone to breaking.
4. Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of haemorrhages in the eyes.
5. Blood Thinning Medications: People on anticoagulants or blood thinners (e.g., aspirin or warfarin) may be at a higher risk of experiencing blood vessel breaks.
6. Eye Infections or Inflammation: Conditions like conjunctivitis or uveitis can sometimes result in blood vessels breaking in the eye.
7. Vigorous Activity: Any form of exertion that increases pressure, such as lifting weights or strenuous physical exercise, can contribute to the rupture of small vessels in the eye.

Symptoms of Blood Vessel Break in Eye

The main symptom of a broken blood vessel in the eye is the sudden appearance of a bright red or dark patch on the white part of the eye (the sclera). The blood is usually contained within the conjunctiva and does not affect the vision or cause pain. Other symptoms can include:

• No discomfort or mild irritation in the eye.
• The feeling of a foreign object in the eye (in rare cases).
• Slight swelling or redness around the eye, depending on the underlying cause.

Diagnosis

In most cases, a blood vessel break in the eye can be diagnosed visually by a healthcare professional. If the rupture is associated with other symptoms, or if there are repeated occurrences, further investigations may be needed to rule out underlying health issues such as hypertension or diabetes.

Treatment for a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye

In most cases, no specific treatment is necessary. The blood will gradually be reabsorbed by the body, and the redness will fade within 1-2 weeks, similar to how a bruise heals. However, there are some measures you can take to ease discomfort or speed up the recovery process:

1. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected eye can help reduce any swelling or irritation.
2. Artificial Tears: If the eye feels dry or irritated, lubricating eye drops can provide relief.
3. Avoid Straining: Refrain from activities that could further strain the eyes, such as heavy lifting or excessive rubbing.
4. Monitor Blood Pressure: If high blood pressure is a suspected cause, it is important to manage it with proper medications or lifestyle changes.
5. Rest and Proper Sleep: Allowing the body adequate rest helps with faster recovery.

When to See a Doctor

While most cases of blood vessel breaks in the eye are harmless, it’s important to seek medical attention if:

• The redness does not resolve after 2-3 weeks.
• You experience pain, vision changes, or swelling in addition to the blood vessel rupture.
• You have frequent episodes of the subconjunctival haemorrhage, especially if they occur without an obvious cause.
• There is a history of eye conditions, high blood pressure, or blood clotting disorders.

Prevention

While you can’t always prevent a blood vessel break in the eye, certain practices can reduce your risk:

• Manage your blood pressure by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications if necessary.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes aggressively, as it can put pressure on blood vessels.
• Protect your eyes with appropriate safety glasses or goggles when engaging in activities that may result in injury.
• Stay hydrated to help maintain overall eye health.

Conclusion

A broken blood vessel in the eye can be alarming to witness, but in most cases, it’s a temporary condition that heals on its own without complications. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and basic treatments, individuals can effectively manage the condition. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is always a good idea to rule out underlying health concerns.

READ ALSO ARTICLE: Sport for Active Seniors