A subconjunctival haemorrhage is bleeding underneath the conjunctiva. It can occur after a sudden or severe sneeze or cough, heavy lifting, straining, vomiting or even rubbing one’s eyes too roughly. It can also occur as a side effect of eye surgery or blood thinners.
The main symptom is a bright red patch in the eye that may spread and then become green or yellow, much like a bruise. Usually it disappears within two weeks.
In most cases, no treatment is required for this condition.
