The conjunctiva is the transparent membrane that covers the surface of the eye. The conjunctiva contains tiny blood vessels that can break or leak after sudden increases in pressure.
A person might not realize they he a subconjunctival hemorrhage until they look in a mirror. It does not cause other symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or vision loss.
Common causes of a red or blood spot on the eye include the following.
Sneezing, coughing, or vomitingSneezing, coughing, or vomiting can cause red spots in the eye due to excess physical strain that can cause cause blood vessels in the eye to burst. This may look concerning, but it is not serious. It will usually clear up by itself in a few days.
Straining to go to the bathroom can also cause red spots on the eye due to physical strain causing burst blood vessels.
Eye injuryInjury to the eye, or trauma to the eye, can cause red spots to appear in the eye due to irritation.
Similarly, allergic reactions, infections, and contact lens use may also cause the appearance of red spots in the eye. A person may also rub their eye too hard, which can also cause red spots.
Learn more about burst blood vessels in the eye.
Diabetic retinopathyHing diabetes is a risk factor for a subconjunctival hemorrhage. However, not everyone with diabetes develops diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
floatersblurred visionreduced night visionseeing colors that appear fadedPeople who he diabetes can reduce their risk of developing diabetic retinopathy by managing their blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
If a person is experiencing diabetic retinopathy, they may wish to consult a doctor about ways to manage underlying diabetes.
Other causesOther causes of subconjunctival hemorrhages include:
high blood pressuretaking a blood thinner such as aspirin or Coumadinmedical disorders that cause bleedingdiabetes