Bloody eyesoften considered scary, because it impresses bloody eyes like a horror movie. That assumption is clearly wrong, because what is meant with Bleeding eye here is a condition where the white part of the eye (sclera) is reddened.
One of the causes of bleeding eyes is subconjunctival hemorrhage. This condition usually goes away on its own in about 2 weeks. However, if the bleeding eyes experienced have interfered with the function of vision, then a medical examination and treatment is needed.
Various Causes of Bloody Eyes
The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent, moist membrane that covers the sclera and eyelids. In this section, there are nerves and many small blood vessels that are rather fragile (the walls are easily damaged or broken). Rupture or damage to blood vessels in this area often causes the appearance of a bloody eye.
Generally, bleeding eyes occur spontaneously for no apparent reason. However, there are several things that can trigger bleeding eyes, namely:
- Impact or and injury in the eye area
- Sneezing and coughing too strong
- Straining and vomiting too strong
- Excessive rubbing of eyes
- Using the wrong contact lenses and hurting the eyes
- Eye infections that can occur after surgery on the eye or eyelid
In addition, bleeding eyes can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, vitamin K deficiency, and the use of anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin.
In addition to being caused by subconjunctival hemorrhage, there is also a hyphema condition that can give an image of bloody eyes. Hyphema is bleeding that occurs in the anterior eye space between the iris (rainbow membrane) and the cornea.
If the bleeding eye is caused by a hyphema, treatment is needed as soon as possible. Hyphema can be painful and if not treated in a timely manner, can cause permanent visual impairment.
How to Treat Bloody Eyes
When you experience bleeding eyes, you are advised to consult an ophthalmologist, so that the exact cause is known. The doctor will usually ask you several questions regarding the complaints you are experiencing, then perform an eye examination. The doctor may also suggest further tests, such as blood tests to confirm the presence or absence of a bleeding disorder.
After that, the doctor will provide treatment, starting from prescribing eye drops to taking other actions according to the cause and condition of the bleeding eye you are experiencing.
If there are no other health problems, such as blood clotting disorders, hypertension, or diabetes, your eyes will usually return to normal within 1-2 weeks. However, during and after treatment, you still need to have regular check-ups with your doctor.
Although not all bleeding eyes are dangerous and some can even go away on their own, you still need to see a doctor. Proper treatment will help speed up recovery and prevent your bleeding eye from developing into a serious condition.