A blood clot in the eye, also called a subconjunctival haemorrhage, is a common condition that can appear alarming due to its distinctive red spot on the sclera (white part of the eye). Although it often looks severe, a blood spot in the eye is generally harmless and doesn’t affect vision. However, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you know when medical intervention may be necessary.
Understanding Blood Clots in the Eye
A blood clot in the eye happens when tiny blood vessels within the eye rupture, leaking blood under the conjunctiva (the transparent surface layer of the eye). This can lead to a red or dark spot that looks like a blood clot but is technically a pooling of blood, similar to a bruise. Known medically as a subconjunctival haemorrhage, this condition is usually painless and often resolves on its own. However, in some cases, it may indicate an underlying health issue, especially if it is recurrent.
Causes of Subconjunctival Haemorrhage
Several factors can lead to a blood clot in the eye. Common causes are:
- Physical strain: Heavy lifting, intense coughing, or even sneezing can cause blood vessels in the eye to break, resulting in a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
- Eye trauma: Injuries to the eye, even minor ones, can rupture blood vessels, leading to the appearance of a blood spot in the eye.
- High blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure can make blood vessels more susceptible to rupture, increasing the risk of blood clots in the eye.
- Blood-thinning medications: Medications like aspirin or anticoagulants may predispose the blood vessels in the eye to break.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can also increase the chances of a broken blood vessel in the eye.
- Contact lens use: Improper use of contact lenses, including inserting or removing them with excessive force, can result in a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
Symptoms of Blood Clots in the Eye
While a blood clot in the eye is usually visible and distinct. Let’s look at some of the symptoms:
- Visible red or dark spot: This spot is the pooled blood trapped under the conjunctiva, noticeable against the white of the eye.
- Mild irritation or dryness: In rare cases, some individuals may feel a slight irritation or dryness around the affected area.
Also Read: Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Diagnosis for Blood Clot in the Eye
If you notice a blood spot in the eye or experience recurrent episodes, consulting an eye specialist is advisable. An ophthalmologist will conduct a visual examination during a consultation to confirm. In some cases, especially if the bleeding is recurrent or extensive, additional tests such as blood pressure measurement or blood tests may be recommended to rule out systemic causes like hypertension, diabetes, or clotting disorders.
Once a diagnosis has been made, the ophthalmologist will suggest a treatment for broken blood vessels in the eye.
Treatment for Blood Clots in the Eye
Most cases of blood clots in the eye resolve without medical intervention. Typically, it will heal on its own within one to two weeks. The red spot gradually fades as the body reabsorbs the blood. However, in some cases, the following protocols may be followed:
- Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief from any mild irritation or dryness associated with the bleeding.
- Avoidance of blood-thinning medications: If the bleeding is linked to blood-thinning medications, your doctor may adjust your dosage or suggest alternative options.
- Protective eyewear: If the bleeding is due to trauma, protective eyewear may be recommended to prevent further injuries.
- Monitor for underlying conditions: In cases where high blood pressure or diabetes is identified as a potential cause of subconjunctival haemorrhage, managing these conditions becomes crucial for prevention.
This is the usual line of subconjunctival haemorrhage treatment followed by ophthalmologists in India and everywhere else.
Summary
Recognising the symptoms and understanding the causes of blood clots in the eye can help manage and prevent future occurrences. Proper care, attention to overall health, and lifestyle adjustments can reduce the risk of developing a blood clot and maintain healthy eyes.
Have you noticed any signs and symptoms of blood clots in the eye? Find an Eye Specialist Near You and Book an Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a blood clot in the eye?
A blood clot in the eye, also known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, occurs when there is bleeding underneath the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye. It can cause the eye to appear bright red or bloodshot.
How do you treat a blood clot in the eye?
In most cases, a blood clot in the eye does not require any specific treatment and will resolve on its own within two to three weeks. However, applying a cold compress, using lubricating eye drops, and avoiding eye rubbing can help alleviate discomfort and speed up the healing process.
What causes blood clots in one eye?
The exact cause of a blood clot in the eye is often unknown. However, factors such as eye trauma or injury, forceful sneezing or coughing, straining due to constipation, high blood pressure, blood-thinning medications, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk. You can also read on how Blood Pressure is Related to Your Eyes?
Is blood in the eye serious?
In most cases, a blood clot in the eye is not serious and tends to resolve on its own. However, if you experience severe pain, changes in vision, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Can I prevent blood clots in the eye?
While it may not always be possible to prevent a blood clot in the eye, you can reduce the risk by protecting your eyes, practicing good hygiene, managing your blood pressure, avoiding straining, being cautious with blood-thinning medications, and maintaining overall eye health.
How can I keep my eyes healthy to avoid blood clots?
To keep your eyes healthy and reduce the risk of blood clots, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, get regular exercise, protect your eyes from excessive sun exposure, and follow good eye hygiene practices.
Should I see a doctor for a blood clot in my eye?
In most cases, a blood clot in the eye does not require immediate medical attention and will resolve on its own. However, if you experience severe pain, changes in vision, or the blood clot does not improve within two to three weeks, it is important to seek medical attention for further evaluation and management.
What causes blood clots in the eyes?
Blood clots in the eyes, or subconjunctival haemorrhages, are commonly caused by broken blood vessels due to sudden pressure from sneezing, coughing, heavy lifting, or eye trauma. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and the use of blood-thinning medications can also increase the risk.
How to get rid of an eye blood clot?
Most eye blood clots resolve on their own without treatment within one to two weeks. Artificial tears can help alleviate any mild irritation. However, if the condition recurs frequently, consult a doctor to investigate underlying causes.
Is blood in the eye serious?
Blood in the eye (subconjunctival haemorrhage) usually looks alarming but is generally harmless, as it doesn’t affect vision and causes no pain.
How long does it take for an eye blood clot to go away?
A typical eye blood clot clears up on its own within one to two weeks as the body reabsorbs the blood. Larger haemorrhages may take slightly longer to fade completely.
Can stress cause blood clots in the eye?
While stress doesn’t directly cause blood clots in the eye, stress-induced behaviours like teeth grinding, excessive eye rubbing, or increased blood pressure can lead to a subconjunctival haemorrhage.
