Blood in the eye

Blood in the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage or red eye) is caused by the breakage of small blood vessels in the eye. The red spot may look alarming, especially if it is large, but usually clears up in 2 to 3 weeks.

Blood vessels may break because of sneezing, coughing, vomiting, straining, or bending over, but sometimes there is no clear cause. Bleeding in front of the colored part of the eye (iris) may occur with an injury and is much more serious than bleeding in the white of the eye. Medications that help prevent blood clots increase the risk of bleeding in the white or colored part of the eye.

Aspirin or aspirin-related products for pain should be avoided when there is bleeding into the eye. Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) may be used instead.