Broken Blood Vessel in Eye
A broken blood vessel in eye is a bright red patch on the white of the eye. A broken blood vessel in eye, also called a subconjunctival hemorrhage, usually looks worse than it is. It is painless and clears on its own.
What Is It
A tiny blood vessel under the clear surface of the eye breaks and leaks blood. Common causes include coughing, sneezing, vomiting, straining, rubbing the eye, and minor injury. High blood pressure and blood thinners can make it more likely.
Symptoms
- A bright red patch on the white of the eye
- No pain or only mild irritation
- Normal vision
- No discharge
- A patch that slowly turns yellow as it heals
- Appears after coughing, sneezing, or straining
Not sure what it is? A red, gritty eye with discharge may be pink eye. Bruising around the eye after an injury may be a black eye.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider checks your vision and examines the eye. Blood pressure may be checked. Most cases need no treatment. Repeat episodes or blood thinners may need more testing.
At home:
- Use artificial tears for mild irritation
- Avoid rubbing the eye
- Use a cold compress if the eye feels irritated
- Check your blood pressure if you have high blood pressure
Most broken blood vessels in the eye clear within 1 to 2 weeks.
When to Get Care for a Broken Blood Vessel in Eye
Most broken blood vessels in the eye can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
Is a broken blood vessel in the eye serious?
A broken blood vessel in the eye is usually not serious. It looks alarming but is painless and clears on its own within 1 to 2 weeks.
What causes a broken blood vessel in the eye?
A broken blood vessel in the eye is caused by coughing, sneezing, vomiting, straining, rubbing the eye, or minor injury. Blood thinners make it more likely.
How long does a broken blood vessel in the eye last?
A broken blood vessel in the eye usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Larger patches can take up to 3 weeks and turn yellow as they fade.
Can high blood pressure cause a broken blood vessel in the eye?
Yes, high blood pressure can make a broken blood vessel in the eye more likely. Checking your blood pressure is a good idea.
Can urgent care treat a broken blood vessel in the eye?
Yes, urgent care can check a broken blood vessel in the eye. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can check your vision and blood pressure. No appointment or referral is needed.
Is a broken blood vessel in the eye contagious?
No, a broken blood vessel in the eye is not contagious. It is a small bleed under the surface of the eye.
Last reviewed October 2026
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