Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery

Article
Focused Health Topics
Contributed byAlexander Enabnit+3 moreMay 13, 2024

Introduction:

A Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH) is a common eye condition characterized by the appearance of bright red patches on the white part of the eye. While typically harmless, it can cause concern due to its dramatic appearance. This comprehensive article aims to provide a thorough understanding of SCH, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Causes of Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH):

SCH is usually caused by the rupture of tiny blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the conjunctiva, the clear layer covering the white part of the eye. Common causes include:

  • Eye trauma: Minor injuries, rubbing the eye vigorously, or foreign objects can lead to SCH.
  • Sneezing or coughing: Forceful sneezing or coughing can raise pressure in the blood vessels.
  • Straining: Heavy lifting, constipation, or straining during exercise.
  • Medical conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure or blood-thinning medications can make blood vessels more prone to rupture.

Symptoms of Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH):

SCH is typically painless and is often noticed visually. Symptoms include:

  • Redness: Bright red patches on the white part of the eye.
  • No pain or discomfort: Unlike other eye conditions, SCH doesn't usually cause pain or vision changes.

Diagnosis of Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH):

Diagnosing SCH is straightforward and primarily involves a clinical examination by an eye specialist. No further tests are usually required.

Treatment of Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH):

In most cases, SCH does not require specific treatment. It typically resolves on its own within a week or two as the blood is gradually absorbed by the body. However, some strategies can help with comfort and recovery:

  • Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops can relieve any mild irritation.
  • Avoiding eye rubbing: Rubbing the affected eye can worsen the condition.
  • Protection: Sunglasses can shield the eye from bright light and irritants during recovery.
  • Monitoring: If SCH is recurrent or occurs without apparent cause, it's essential to consult an eye specialist to rule out underlying conditions.

Recovery from Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH):

SCH typically follows a predictable course:

  • Color change: The bright red patch may turn brown or yellow as the blood is reabsorbed.
  • Complete resolution: Most SCHs clear up completely within a couple of weeks.
  • No scarring or vision changes: SCH doesn't usually cause permanent damage or affect vision.

Conclusion:

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (SCH) is a common eye condition that may appear alarming but is typically harmless. By understanding its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and the natural course of recovery, individuals can alleviate concerns and know when to seek medical attention for recurrent or unexplained cases.

Hashtags: #SubconjunctivalHemorrhage #EyeHealth #EyeConditions #EyeCare


Was this article helpful

On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Alexander Enabnit picture
Author

Alexander Enabnit

Senior Editorial Staff
Alexandra Warren picture
Author

Alexandra Warren

Senior Editorial Staff
Nadia Debska picture
Author

Nadia Debska

Editorial Staff

0 Comments

Please log in to post a comment.

Related Articles

Test Your Knowledge

Asked by users

Related Centers

Loading

Related Specialties

Loading card

Related Physicians

Related Procedures

Related Resources

Join DoveHubs

and connect with fellow professionals

Related Directories

Who we are

At DoveMed, our utmost priority is your well-being. We are an online medical resource dedicated to providing you with accurate and up-to-date information on a wide range of medical topics. But we're more than just an information hub - we genuinely care about your health journey. That's why we offer a variety of products tailored for both healthcare consumers and professionals, because we believe in empowering everyone involved in the care process.
Our mission is to create a user-friendly healthcare technology portal that helps you make better decisions about your overall health and well-being. We understand that navigating the complexities of healthcare can be overwhelming, so we strive to be a reliable and compassionate companion on your path to wellness.
As an impartial and trusted online resource, we connect healthcare seekers, physicians, and hospitals in a marketplace that promotes a higher quality, easy-to-use healthcare experience. You can trust that our content is unbiased and impartial, as it is trusted by physicians, researchers, and university professors around the globe. Importantly, we are not influenced or owned by any pharmaceutical, medical, or media companies. At DoveMed, we are a group of passionate individuals who deeply care about improving health and wellness for people everywhere. Your well-being is at the heart of everything we do.

© 2023 DoveMed. All rights reserved. It is not the intention of DoveMed to provide specific medical advice. DoveMed urges its users to consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and answers to their personal medical questions. Always call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you have a medical emergency!