The conjunctiva is like a thin 'skin' on the front of the eyeball. It covers the white part of the eye (the sclera) but does not cover the central part of the eye (the cornea). In between the conjunctiva and the sclera run tiny blood vessels. If you look closely at the sclera you may just be able to see a few tiny blood vessels. If one of these tiny blood vessels bursts, it bleeds in between the conjunctiva and the sclera. This bleed is called a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
In most people there is no apparent cause. It just happens. Older people tend to have them most.
Occasionally, an injury to the eye or a head injury can cause one. Sometimes they happen after a bout of coughing or being sick. They are rarely caused by high blood pressure. If you have a bleeding disorder, you may be more prone to having a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
No treatment is needed. They usually fade and disappear within two weeks. But mention to your doctor if:
Simple analgesics can be used after injury, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:
You may have been prescribed an alternative pain killer, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.
In most cases, you will not need to return for a further check-up. However, contact your GP or NHS 111 if:
If you feel this is an emergency then go to your local Emergency Department
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a smoke-free organisation. You are not permitted to smoke or in use e-cigarettes in any of the hospital buildings or grounds.
