Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
My 86-year-old father "felt" a blood vessel burst in his eye late at night. The following day it was red and my sister described the area as looking a bit like a fried egg with a bump near the iris. He doesn't want to see a doctor. Is it important that he see one?   

Answer:
If he has no symptoms, and the eye is not uncomfortable, he has probably had a "subconjunctival hemorrhage," which is nothing to worry about. These things look bad but are of no concern. However, if he has additional symptoms, he should see an ophthalmologist.

Answered by: Charles P. Wilkinson, MD

Categories: General Eye Health

Have a question that hasn't been answered yet? Ask it!