A burst blood vessel in the eye

Symptoms of a popped blood vessel in your eye

A burst blood vessel in the eye is a relatively common occurrence. It typically affects one eye at a time, although both eyes may occasionally be involved. Understandably, many people find the appearance of a blood patch in the eye concerning, and it is natural to feel worried. However, in the majority of cases this condition is harmless and resolves without treatment. Below are the main signs and symptoms you may observe

Red patch in one part of the eye 

You’ll typically see a bright red patch on one area of the sclera (the whites of your eyes), while the rest appears normal. This is most common when the burst eye vessel is caused by minor injury or straining, such as rubbing your eye, sneezing or coughing.

Redness all over the eye

Sometimes, most or all of the sclera goes red, which might look quite shocking. This is more likely when the burst eye vessel is related to issues with your veins. 

Mild aching

Unlike some other eye conditions that can cause redness around the eye, a burst blood vessel doesn't usually cause pain. Some people, however, do notice some mild aching or discomfort.

No change in vision

It's very rare for a broken blood vessel in your eye to cause any changes to your vision. Your sight should remain completely normal. If you do get any visual changes, contact your GP, optometrist, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116.

Gradual colour change

A burst vessel starts bright red with clear edges, then fades to brown and yellow as it heals. Just like a bruise.

Eye discomfort

Most people don't notice any pain when a blood vessel bursts in an eye. But some people find the eye feels sore, scratchy or it might ache a bit.

Popping feeling

Some feel a mild pop as it happens, but most only notice when they see it in the mirror or someone points it out.

Causes of a burst blood vessel in your eye

There are many reasons why you might get a subconjunctival haemorrhage. However, research shows that the cause is unknown in almost half of cases that get treated medically. Here are some of the most common burst blood vessel in eye causes that we see.

Sneezing, coughing or vomiting

Sudden pressure from sneezing, coughing, vomiting or lifting heavy weights can raise blood pressure and cause a burst vessel in the eye.

Contact lenses

Putting lenses in or taking them out roughly can burst vessels. Damaged lenses can also scratch the eye.

Learn more about contact lenses

Eye trauma

Rubbing too hard, getting something in your eye or a knock to the eye can all burst blood vessels. 

Learn more about the feeling of something in your eye

Eye surgery

Recent surgeries for eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts can commonly be associated with subconjunctival haemorrhage after. This can be due to the procedure itself or from the anesthetic injection.

Learn more about glaucoma

Eye conditions

Some eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome, blepharitis and allergic reactions can make people want to rub their eyes vigorously.

Learn more about blepharitis and dry eye syndrome

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against vessel walls is elevated causing it to pop. This is found commonly in people with high blood pressure.

Learn more about ocular hypertension

Blood thinning medication

Blood‑thinning medications, such as warfarin, heparin, and aspirin, increase the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Vein‑related conditions

Issues like diabetes or high cholesterol can make eye vessels more fragile and more likely to burst.

Learn more about diabetic retinopathy

Tumours and growths

Some eye growths can raise the risk of burst vessels. They’re often harmless but should be checked by a doctor.

Menstruation

It's quite rare, but there have been some reports of women getting repeated broken blood vessels in their eyes at the start of their periods.

Rare diseases

A burst eye vessel can sometimes be a symptom of rare conditions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, hemochromatosis, Kaposi sarcoma, and certain dermatologic vasculature diseases.

Diagnosing popped blood vessel in the eye

In certain cases, it is important to consult your GP or an optometrist. They will examine your eye, determine when the issue began, review your medical history, and assess any medications you are taking.

Recurring burst blood vessel in your eye

If this keeps reoccurring, then it's important to get this checked as this could be a sign of more serious conditions like a vein disorder or hypertension (high blood pressure). 

It is very painful

A burst blood vessel in the eye is typically painless or only mildly uncomfortable. Seek emergency care if you experience significant pain, a sensation of something piercing the eye, or changes in vision. Medical attention is also advised if you develop nausea, halos around lights, or feel generally unwell.

You had an eye, face or head injury

If you noticed blood in your eye after any kind of physical impact to your eye, face, or head, you should get medical help. Certain eye injuries ‑ such as globe rupture or retinal detachment ‑ can seriously threaten your vision if not treated urgently.
 
Learn more about retinal detachment

Preventing a burst blood vessel in the eye

It’s not always possible to prevent a burst blood vessel in the eye, as certain factors—such as coughing or sneezing—are beyond your control. However, the following tips may help reduce the likelihood of it occurring:

Regular eye tests

A popped blood vessel in the eye could be a sign of other eye conditions or underlying health issues. Going for regular checks means your optometrist is more likely to pick any issues up sooner.

Avoid straining

Build up strength slowly and get help with heavy lifting to avoid pressure that can burst eye vessels.

Treat high blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure (hypertension), speak to your GP about ways to manage this with changes to your diet and lifestyle. Taking hypertension medication can also be really effective.

Don't rub your eyes

Rubbing eyes vigorously is a common cause of broken blood vessels in eyes. If your eyes are sore and itchy, consider using a cold compress to relieve discomfort instead.

Contact lens care

Problems with contact lenses can cause scratches that lead to burst blood vessels in eyes. Follow the care instructions on the packaging, and throw any damaged lenses away.

Wear protection

Burst eye vessels often happen when people knock their heads or faces, or when objects fly into their eyes. Wear suitable head and eye protection at work, when doing DIY, or taking part in sports.

Book an eye test