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This occurs when a small blood vessel or capillary breaks and bleeds
under the clear conjunctival layer covering the sclera. Blood is trapped under the
conjunctiva, similar to a skin bruise.
The hemorrhage may first appear as a bright red patch on the eye often discovered
in the morning after awakening from sleep. The hemorrhage may occur seemingly without
reason or may appear after coughing, sneezing, vomiting, heavy drinking, or any
activity that results in a rapid increase in blood pressure.
There is no pain or vision loss associated with a subconjunctival hemorrhage.
Its appearance may seem serious, but it is essentially harmless. It may first appear
as a red patch, but may soon spread over a few days to cover nearly all of the visible
white of the eye. The blood will naturally be absorbed over a period of one to three
weeks and requires no treatment.
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