Overview

The conjunctiva is a clear membrane covering the white of your eye (sclera) and the inside of the eyelids. A sub-conjunctival haemorrhage is bleeding from the tiny blood vessels under the conjunctiva.

Causes of a sub-conjunctival haemorrhage

The most common causes are: 

• coughing
• sneezing
• straining
• nose blowing
• a direct injury to your eye
• high blood pressure

Signs and symptoms

You will usually notice a small, red spot of blood on the white of your eye. This usually happens suddenly and is not painful. It will not affect your eyesight. 

Diagnosing a sub-conjunctival haemorrhage

The ophthalmologist (eye doctor) or nurse practitioner will examine your eye thoroughly using a microscope.

They might also put some eye drops into your eye to dilate your pupil (make it larger). This allows us to see the back of your eye.

The eye drops will blur your vision temporarily for about 2 to 3 hours.

You must not drive if this affects your vision.

We might also check your blood pressure and test for diabetes.

Treatment options

Although the condition looks frightening, it is never serious. Treatment is not necessary and the haemorrhage will clear up on its own. It is similar to a bruise.  The blood should be re-absorbed by your body in 1 to 2 weeks.

You can carry on with your usual activities while the haemorrhage is healing.

When to get help

You should tell your doctor or nurse if: 

• you have injured your eye, for example, if something could have got into your eye, like a small piece of metal 
• you have any other unexplained bleeding or bruising elsewhere on your body
• you've not had your blood pressure checked recently 
• you have a blood condition, such as lymphoma or leukaemia
• you are on chemotherapy for cancer