Master, Doctor Pham Huy Vu Tung, Deputy Head of the Ophthalmology Department at the High-Tech Eye Center, conducted a thorough examination. He noted blood beneath the conjunctival layer, with a clear cornea and a normal anterior chamber (the small space between the cornea and the iris), leading to a diagnosis of subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Subconjunctival hemorrhage, or bleeding in the eye, occurs when tiny capillaries located just beneath the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye (the conjunctiva) rupture. This causes blood to leak out and accumulate between the conjunctiva and the sclera. While usually not painful or vision-impairing, the noticeable red appearance often causes alarm for patients.

Doctor Tung explained that a severe, five-minute coughing fit can lead to a sudden increase in pressure within the patient's blood vessels, causing fragile capillaries in the eye to rupture. This is a common cause of subconjunctival hemorrhage, alongside factors such as forceful sneezing, straining, eye rubbing, trauma, or improper contact lens use.

Doctor Tung examining Duyen's eye with a light. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The doctor prescribed eye drops to help dissolve the blood clot and protect the ocular surface. Duyen's right eye showed no signs of hemorrhage during her follow-up appointment two weeks later.

Doctor Tung noted that most cases of subconjunctival hemorrhage are benign and typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks without special intervention. However, this condition can recur, so patients should limit strenuous activity, especially during severe coughing or continuous sneezing. Prioritizing warm fluid intake can help reduce respiratory irritation. Subconjunctival hemorrhage can also be linked to underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or atherosclerosis, requiring patients to monitor and manage these conditions effectively.

Doctor Tung advises everyone to avoid rubbing their eyes, wear protective eyewear when commuting or engaging in physical activity to prevent injury, and use contact lenses correctly. If eye redness is accompanied by unusual symptoms like pain, blurred vision, eyelid swelling, or increased blood pressure, it is important to visit an ophthalmology specialist for timely examination and treatment. Regular eye check-ups every six to 12 months can help screen for refractive errors and other eye conditions.

Ngoc Kim Tham