Subconjunctival hemorrhage

Background

• Bleeding of the conjunctival vessels into the subconjunctival space
• Can be spontaneous or related to trauma
• If large and associated with trauma, concern for occult globe rupture (obscured by hemorrhage)

Diagnosis

1. Painless
2. No effect on vision
3. May recall a history of mild trauma or valsalva
4. Examination
   1. Fresh red blood on a white sclera with clear borders
   2. Masks the conjunctival vessels

Workup

1. Flurocine
2. No labs unless history concerning for:
   1. Hypertension
   2. Diabetes
   3. Bleeding disorder

Treatment

1. Reassurance
   1. Will resolve 10-14 days

See Also

• Eye Algorithm (Main)
• Globe Rupture