Blood Clot in Eye: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
In this composition, we will explore about blood clot in eye.
When you have a blood clot in the eye, it means that you have seen a red patch on the white of the eye which is caused by a broken blood vessel. This is called a subconjunctival haemorrhage. It happens when a small blood vessel ruptures allowing blood to accumulate under the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye. Though the redness can be alarming, this is not normally dangerous and shouldn't affect vision. But if the bleeding is within the eye or the blood vessel is blocked, it may be serious and need medical evaluation.
Several factors can cause a blood clot in eye. At times, it shows up for no apparent reason. This can be caused by rubbing the eyes too hard, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, heavy lifting or straining while having a bowel movement. Even a minor eye injury can cause damage to the delicate blood vessels.
This problem may be more likely if you have certain health problems. Blood vessels can become affected by high blood pressure and diabetes and bleeding can be more likely with blood-thinning medicines. Recurrent episodes sometimes may occur due to an underlying bleeding disorder. If eye bleeding occurs often or for an unknown reason, see a health care provider.
The most prominent symptom is a bright red area on the white part of the eye. It can erupt at any time and can affect a small or extensive area. In most cases of subconjunctival haemorrhage, the patch is not painful, oozing or cloudy. Mild irritation or a scratchy sensation may be experienced by some.
Symptoms may vary with the site and cause of bleeding, however. If the eye pain is severe, if there has been any sudden change in the vision, sensitivity to light or blood in front of the coloured part of the eye may be a sign of something more serious. If bleeding occurs after injury to the eye, or with pain or loss of vision, get immediate medical help.
An eye exam can help identify the cause of the red patch and if the bleeding is superficial or not. The health care provider might ask questions regarding previous episodes, medical conditions, medications, and recent injuries. Sometimes the blood pressure will be measured as well, especially if the bleeding is frequent.
If symptoms indicate another eye disease, additional exam or testing may be required. When a bleeding disorder is suspected, a blood test may be indicated. This depends on the symptoms, medical history and examination.
If the bleeding is not complicated, there is no special treatment needed for the surface blood clot. The blood reabsorbed by the body and the red patch usually disappears in 1-3 weeks. As healing occurs the affected area can turn a different colour, similar to a bruise on the skin.
Artificial tears can be used as eye drops to help relieve mild irritation. Don't rub the eye and do not use eye drops unless directed to do so. Do not stop any prescribed blood thinner without talking to the prescribing health care provider. Make an eye appointment if the bleeding continues, keeps coming back or is painful.
While in some cases it can't be avoided, there are some habits that can minimize risk. Don't rub your eyes, wear eye protection when playing activities that could cause eye injury and handle contact lenses carefully. Controlling blood pressure and diabetes also helps to keep eyes healthy.
If you have recurrent red areas, bruising or bleeding in other areas, please consult your doctor. Periodic health screening may help to establish contributing conditions. Early assessment is especially crucial if symptoms are not consistent with the typical painless surface haemorrhage.
If there is a blood clot in the eye, it can be a scary sight, but there's a high chance it was caused by a broken blood vessel at the surface of the eye that heals on its own. Knowing about the cause, symptoms and recovery process can help you react appropriately. However, any eye injury, extreme pain, sudden changes in vision or frequent bleeding should never be taken lightly. Evaluation by professionals can help determine the cause and make sure a potentially serious eye problem receives timely treatment.