Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Presentation

This condition may occur spontaneously or may follow minor trauma, coughing, vomiting, straining at stool, or exercising heavily. There is no pain or visual loss, but the patient may be frightened by the appearance of the affected eye and have some sensation of superficial fullness or discomfort. Often a friend or family member is frightened by the appearance and insists that the patient see a physician. This hemorrhage usually appears as a bright red area covering part of the sclera but contained by the conjunctiva ( Fig. 25.1 ). Hemorrhage may cover the whole visible globe, sparing only the cornea.