Subconjunctival hemorrhages, also known as broken blood vessels in the eye, can indeed appear to worsen before they start to improve. This occurrence can be quite alarming to individuals who experience it, as the initial appearance of a bright red patch on the white part of the eye can be quite striking. However, it is essential to understand that this condition is usually harmless and self-limiting.
When a subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs, it is typically the result of a small blood vessel in the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye, breaking or rupturing. This can happen due to various reasons, such as strong coughing, sneezing, straining, rubbing the eye vigorously, or even minor injury to the eye. It can also occur spontaneously without any apparent cause.
Initially, the broken blood vessel may appear as a small, localized area of redness on the white part of the eye. However, over the next few hours or days, the blood may spread across a larger portion of the eye, making the hemorrhage appear more extensive and more dramatic. This spreading occurs because the blood is not contained within a specific vessel but rather spreads through the surrounding tissues.
As the blood spreads, the affected area may change in color. It may transition from bright red to a darker shade, such as purple or even black. This change in color is due to the breakdown of red blood cells and the subsequent release of their pigment. Additionally, the blood may also pool and collect in dependent areas due to gravity, leading to a more concentrated appearance of discoloration in certain parts of the eye.
While this progression may seem concerning, especially as the hemorrhage becomes more widespread and the eye may look quite bloodshot, it is important to remember that subconjunctival hemorrhages are usually not associated with any significant pain, vision changes, or other symptoms. They are typically harmless and do not require any specific treatment.
With time, the body’s natural healing processes kick in, and the broken blood vessel begins to repair itself. The blood gradually gets reabsorbed by the surrounding tissues, and the eye starts to clear up. The timeline for resolution can vary, but most subconjunctival hemorrhages improve within one to two weeks.
It is crucial to note that during the healing process, certain factors can affect the appearance of the subconjunctival hemorrhage. For example, activities that increase blood flow to the head, such as exercise or bending over, can cause temporary worsening of the redness due to increased pressure in the blood vessels. Additionally, the use of certain medications, such as blood thinners, may prolong the healing time and delay the clearance of the blood.
A broken blood vessel in the eye, or subconjunctival hemorrhage, may initially appear as a small red patch but can spread and look worse before it starts to improve. The blood may take on different colors as it breaks down, and the eye may become more bloodshot. However, these changes are part of the natural healing process, and the hemorrhage will eventually clear up on its own. If there are no other concerning symptoms or complications, no specific treatment is usually necessary.