Discharge of blood from the eye is known as eye hemorrhage. It occurs in the conjunctiva, which is a membrane that covers the eyeball. This kind of bleeding is known as subconjunctival hemorrhage. It produces red patches in the eye that can be easily visible. Most of the serious hemorrhages occur in the retina.
Causes of Eye Hemorrhage
- Trauma or minor blow may result in a subconjunctival hemorrhage. It may also occur due to coughing, sneezing and straining.
- In a few cases, recurrent eye hemorrhages may signify blood disorder or may be caused by intake of aspirin or several other drugs which reduce blood clotting.
- Retinal or vitreous hemorrhages may be caused due to a diabetes complication called diabetic retinopathy.
- Injury to the retina or high blood pressure may also cause hemorrhages.
Diagnosis
Usually a subconjunctival hemorrhage can be diagnosed visually, but retinal and vitreous hemorrhages can be diagnosed by ophthalmological examination using specialized instruments.
Treatment is not required for most subconjunctival hemorrhages. Vitreous hemorrhages can often slowly disappear without any treatment. But, they should be watched carefully as they may result in forming bands which can obscure vision and detach the retina. This problem requires immediate attention in order to prevent vision loss.
If the vitreous gets clouded by blood, vitrectomy surgery may be used to treat it.
Diabetes may cause retinal bleeding which is more serious and it may result in blindness. Sometimes hemorrhages can be treated with laser surgery.
High blood pressure may also cause hemorrhages. In order to prevent them, blood pressure should be lowered.
Symptoms
- Moving spots or floaters before the eyes.
- Red patches on the eyeball surface.
- Diminishing vision.
How to Avoid Eye Hemorrhage
Protect your eyes when playing games or working. Wear safety eye glasses whenever required. A person who is suffering from diabetes should try to control the disease through exercise, diet and medication.
Go for regular blood pressure check up.
