When part or all of the white of the eye becomes blood red.
Dr Trisha Macnair last medically reviewed this article in July 2008
Subconjunctival haemorrhage
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What is subconjunctival haemorrhage?
The conjunctiva - the thin clear membrane that covers the whites of the eyes and lines the inside of the eyelids - contains many thin and delicate blood vessels, which are easily damaged. When this damage occurs, blood collects between the conjunctiva and the white of the eye, turning that part of the eye bright red.
It isn't painful and doesn't affect vision. The greatest problem it causes people is to frighten them.
Causes and risk factors
It often occurs spontaneously for no apparent reason or sometimes it's caused by coughing, sneezing or by a minor injury to the eye.
Treatment and recovery
Subconjunctival haemorrhage is common, particularly in the older population. It doesn't need treatment because it clears up within two or three weeks, sometimes sooner, and doesn't leave any permanent damage.
People who have recurrent subconjunctival haemorrhages should have their blood pressure checked to ensure it isn't too high. Their blood should also be tested to ensure it clots properly.
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