EYE, SUBCONJUNCTIVAL HEMORRHAGE |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Sudden appearance of blood in the white area of the eye (conjunctiva). Although the bleeding may appear frightening, it is not painful or serious.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMSA small, painless collection of bright red blood over the white of the eye. Swelling may occur in the affected area of the conjunctiva. The condition doesn't interfere with vision.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Sometimes caused by injury to the eye, but usually is spontaneous bleeding with no known cause. It may follow coughing, sneezing or vomiting. Risk increases with:
Use of mind-altering drugs.
Use of anticoagulant drugs.
HOW TO PREVENTUse appropriate equipment to protect the head and face from injury.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURE
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor (sometimes).
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSThe blood should be absorbed in 2 or 3 weeks. The blood changes color gradually to brown or green before disappearing.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSNone expected.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTConsult a doctor if there has been injury to the eye or a change in vision.
H0ME TREATMENT
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Use cold compresses for several days to prevent additional bleeding. Fold a clean cloth in several layers, dip it in cold water and wring it out a little. Apply it to the eye for 10 minutes every hour.
Use warm compresses when signs of bleeding have stopped for 2 days. This will hasten blood absorption. Apply to the eye for 10 to 30 minutes 3 times a day.
MEDICATIONMedicine is usually not necessary for this disorder.
ACTIVITYNo restrictions.
DIETNo special diet.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of subconjunctival hemorrhage, especially if you have eye pain or your vision changes.
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