Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye: Causes, Healing and Treatment

Waking up to a bright red patch on the white of your eye can be alarming. You may wonder whether something serious has happened, how long the redness will last and whether there is anything you can do to make it disappear faster.

A broken blood vessel in the eye, medically known as a subconjunctival haemorrhage, occurs when a small blood vessel breaks beneath the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye. The trapped blood creates a red patch that can look dramatic, even when there is little or no discomfort.

In most cases, a subconjunctival haemorrhage is harmless and clears naturally without specific treatment. However, it is important to recognise the symptoms that may indicate a different or more serious eye condition.

In this guide, we explain what causes a broken blood vessel in the eye, how long it takes to heal, what you can do to manage discomfort and when to seek professional advice.

What Is a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye?

A broken blood vessel in the eye occurs when a tiny blood vessel beneath the conjunctiva ruptures, allowing a small amount of blood to collect between the conjunctiva and the white of the eye.

The condition is called a subconjunctival haemorrhage. It usually appears as a sharply defined red patch on the white part of one eye. Depending on the amount of blood and how it changes over time, the patch may look bright red, dark red or slightly purplish.

Although it can resemble a blood clot, the blood is actually trapped beneath the conjunctiva.

Common characteristics include:

• A visible red patch on the white of the eye.
• Little or no pain.
• No significant change in vision.
• No discharge associated with the patch itself.

Some people notice the redness immediately, while others discover it when looking in the mirror.

The appearance can be unsettling, but an uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhage generally resolves on its own as the body gradually absorbs the trapped blood.

Important: A red eye accompanied by pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision or an eye injury should not automatically be assumed to be a broken blood vessel. These symptoms require prompt medical assessment.

What Causes a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye?

Small blood vessels in the conjunctiva are delicate and can occasionally rupture following a sudden increase in pressure or minor irritation. In many cases, however, the exact cause is not identified.

Common causes and contributing factors include the following.

1. Coughing, Sneezing or Straining

Activities that temporarily increase pressure in the blood vessels can sometimes trigger a subconjunctival haemorrhage.

These may include:

• Forceful coughing or sneezing.
• Vomiting.
• Straining during bowel movements.
• Heavy lifting or intense physical exertion.

The redness may appear shortly after the activity, although the connection is not always obvious.

2. Rubbing the Eyes

Rubbing or pressing the eyes can damage the delicate blood vessels beneath the conjunctiva.

This may happen when your eyes feel itchy, dry or irritated. If your eyes are uncomfortable, avoid rubbing them and consider seeking advice about the underlying cause.

3. Minor Eye Trauma

A small knock, accidental poke or other minor injury can cause a blood vessel to rupture.

However, redness following an eye injury should not automatically be treated as a simple subconjunctival haemorrhage. More serious injuries can cause bleeding inside the eye, which may affect vision and require urgent treatment.

If a red eye develops following an injury, seek prompt medical assessment.

4. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can contribute to the risk of subconjunctival haemorrhage, particularly in older adults.

If you develop an unexplained or recurrent broken blood vessel, checking your blood pressure may be advisable.

A single episode does not necessarily mean that you have high blood pressure, but recurring episodes should not be ignored.

5. Blood-Thinning Medication

Medicines that affect blood clotting, including anticoagulants and some antiplatelet medicines, can increase the likelihood of bleeding.

If you take these medicines and notice a broken blood vessel in your eye, seek medical advice if the bleeding is recurrent, extensive or accompanied by other signs of bleeding.

Do not stop prescribed blood-thinning medication without speaking to your prescribing clinician. Stopping it without medical guidance can increase the risk of serious complications.

6. Diabetes and Other Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, including diabetes and disorders affecting blood clotting, may be relevant when assessing recurrent subconjunctival haemorrhages.

A broken blood vessel alone does not establish that you have an underlying medical condition. However, repeated episodes, unexplained bleeding or other symptoms may warrant further assessment.

7. Contact Lens Use

Contact lenses do not necessarily cause a subconjunctival haemorrhage, but insertion, removal or accidental irritation can sometimes injure the eye's surface.

If you wear contact lenses and develop a red eye accompanied by pain, light sensitivity, discharge or blurred vision, seek urgent eye care. These symptoms may indicate a problem other than a simple broken blood vessel.

How Long Does a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye Take to Heal?

Most uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhages clear naturally within one to two weeks, although larger areas of bleeding may take longer.

The body gradually absorbs the trapped blood, and the red patch may change colour as it heals. You might notice it becoming darker, lighter or slightly yellowish before disappearing.

The healing process generally follows this pattern:

The exact timeline varies depending on the size of the haemorrhage and individual healing.

There is no proven home remedy that reliably makes the blood disappear overnight. The most useful approach is to avoid further irritation, manage any discomfort and allow the eye time to heal.

If the redness is not improving after a couple of weeks, persists beyond approximately three weeks or repeatedly returns, arrange an eye assessment.

How to Help a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye Heal

If you have an uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhage, treatment is usually unnecessary. However, a few simple measures may help keep your eye comfortable while the blood is absorbed.

1. Use Lubricating Eye Drops if Needed

A broken blood vessel does not usually cause pain, but some people experience mild irritation or a gritty sensation.

Lubricating eye drops, also called artificial tears, may help relieve this discomfort.

Consider the following:

• Choose a reputable lubricating eye drop suitable for your symptoms.
• Preservative-free drops may be preferable if you need to use them frequently.
• Follow the product instructions.
• Ask a pharmacist or eye care professional if you are unsure which product is suitable.

Artificial tears can improve comfort, but they do not dissolve the trapped blood or make the red patch disappear more quickly.

Avoid using antibiotic drops or other medicated eye preparations unless they have been recommended for a specific reason.

2. Avoid Rubbing or Pressing on Your Eye

It is important to avoid rubbing the affected eye, even if it feels slightly irritated.

Rubbing can cause additional irritation and may lead to further injury. Try not to press on the eyelid or repeatedly pull it back to examine the red patch.

If you experience itching or discomfort, seek advice about appropriate treatment rather than rubbing the area.

3. Be Careful With Compresses

A cold compress may provide comfort if there is mild irritation or swelling, particularly following minor external irritation.

If you choose to use one:

1. Take a clean, soft cloth.
2. Dampen it with cool water.
3. Close your eye and place the cloth gently over the eyelid.
4. Avoid applying pressure to the eye.
5. Do not place ice directly on the eyelid.

A warm compress is not necessary for an uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhage. Neither warm nor cold compresses have been shown to reliably speed up the absorption of the trapped blood.

If the redness developed after an injury, seek medical advice rather than relying on home treatment.

4. Give Your Eyes Time to Recover

Most uncomplicated cases improve without intervention.

During this time:

• Avoid rubbing or pressing on the affected eye.
• Take breaks from screens if your eyes feel tired or dry.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Maintain your usual hydration and balanced diet.
• Follow any advice provided by your eye care professional.

There is no need to restrict normal activities in every case. However, if the haemorrhage followed strenuous activity or an injury, ask a healthcare professional whether any temporary precautions are appropriate.

5. Avoid Unnecessary Medication Changes

If you take aspirin, anticoagulants or other medicines that affect blood clotting, do not stop or change your medication without medical guidance.

Similarly, do not start medication or supplements in an attempt to make the blood vessel heal faster.

If the haemorrhage is recurrent or you have other symptoms of bleeding, a clinician can review your medication and medical history to determine whether further investigation is needed.

Can Natural Remedies Help a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye?

When an eye suddenly becomes red, it is understandable to look for natural ways to restore its appearance. However, not every commonly recommended home remedy is safe or effective.

Herbal Tea Bags

Cooled tea bags are sometimes recommended as a soothing compress. However, there is insufficient evidence that chamomile or green tea bags help a subconjunctival haemorrhage heal faster.

Tea bags may also introduce contaminants or irritate the skin and eyes.

A clean, cool cloth is a simpler option if you want temporary comfort.

Rose Water and Cucumber

Rose water and cucumber slices are sometimes used in beauty routines to refresh the skin around the eyes.

However, they have not been shown to accelerate the healing of a broken blood vessel. Rose water may contain fragrances or other ingredients that irritate the eyes.

If you wish to soothe the area, use a clean cloth dampened with cool water rather than placing homemade preparations near the eye.

Vitamin-Rich Foods

A balanced diet supports general health, including normal blood vessel function.

Foods containing vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries and peppers, and vitamin A, such as carrots and leafy vegetables, can contribute to overall nutritional health.

However, there is no strong evidence that eating particular foods will make an existing subconjunctival haemorrhage clear more quickly.

You generally do not need additional supplements unless a healthcare professional identifies a nutritional deficiency or another reason to recommend them.

For more information, read our guide to the best foods for eye health.

Ayurvedic Oils and Eye Massage

Massaging the skin around the eyes or applying oils is not a proven treatment for a broken blood vessel.

Avoid massaging or pressing on the affected area, as this may irritate the eye. Do not put coconut oil, almond oil, herbal preparations or other non-ophthalmic products into the eye.

If you are unsure whether a product is suitable for use around the eyes, seek advice from an eye care professional.

How Is a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye Diagnosed?

An uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhage can often be identified by its characteristic appearance and the absence of pain or visual disturbance.

During an assessment, a healthcare professional may ask about:

• When the redness first appeared.
• Whether you have experienced any pain, irritation or changes in vision.
• Whether there has been an injury or recent strenuous activity.
• Whether you have experienced similar episodes before.
• Any medicines you take, including blood-thinning medication.
• Relevant medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, the clinician may check your blood pressure and examine the eye.

Further investigations are not necessary in every case. However, recurrent or unexplained episodes, other bleeding symptoms or signs of an underlying condition may warrant additional tests.

When Does a Broken Blood Vessel in the Eye Need Medical Attention?

Although most subconjunctival haemorrhages are harmless, a red eye can sometimes indicate a more serious problem.

The following table outlines when to seek medical advice.

Do not assume that every red patch is a subconjunctival haemorrhage. A proper assessment is particularly important when symptoms are painful, follow an injury or affect your vision.

What Other Conditions Can Cause Blood or Redness in the Eye?

Several eye conditions can cause redness or bleeding, but they do not all affect the same part of the eye.

Understanding the differences is important because the treatment and urgency can vary considerably.

1. Subconjunctival Haemorrhage

This occurs when a small blood vessel breaks beneath the conjunctiva.

It usually causes a sharply defined red patch on the white of the eye without pain or changes in vision. Most cases resolve naturally.

2. Hyphema

A hyphema occurs when blood collects inside the front chamber of the eye, between the cornea and the iris.

It is often associated with eye trauma and can affect vision or increase pressure inside the eye.

A suspected hyphema requires urgent medical assessment. It should not be managed as a simple broken blood vessel.

3. Bleeding Inside the Eye

Bleeding into the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside the eye, can cause floaters, hazy vision, flashes or a sudden reduction in sight.

This is different from a subconjunctival haemorrhage and may be associated with trauma or underlying eye conditions.

Sudden visual changes require urgent eye assessment.

4. Conjunctivitis and Other Causes of Red Eye

Conjunctivitis can cause redness, watering, irritation and sometimes discharge. Other conditions, including corneal problems and inflammation inside the eye, can also cause redness.

Pain, light sensitivity or visual changes should not be dismissed as routine irritation.

If you are uncertain about the cause of a red eye, a clinical examination can help determine the appropriate next steps.

Conclusion

A broken blood vessel in the eye can look alarming, but an uncomplicated subconjunctival haemorrhage is usually harmless and resolves naturally within one to two weeks.

There is no reliable home remedy that makes the trapped blood disappear overnight. Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye, use lubricating drops if needed for discomfort and give the eye time to heal. Do not stop prescribed medication or apply homemade remedies directly to the eye in an attempt to speed up recovery.

Most importantly, pay attention to accompanying symptoms. Eye pain, sensitivity to light, changes in vision or redness following an injury may indicate a condition that requires urgent treatment.

At Perfect Eyes Clinic, an assessment can help establish the cause of persistent or concerning eye symptoms and determine whether further investigation is needed.

If you are experiencing recurrent eye redness or are unsure whether a red patch is a broken blood vessel, consider arranging a consultation for an individual assessment.