Why Is My Eye Blood Vessel Still Visible After Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Q: Why Is My Eye Blood Vessel Still Visible After Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Hello Ms. <br>Wang： Blood vessels do not form suddenly and become this prominent. <br>They likely existed before but have become more noticeable due to factors such as inflammation. <br>Once the inflammation resolves, they may shrink and become less prominent, but they should sti

Persistent red eye?

Hello Doctor, last month I underwent laser treatment for a retinal tear, and I also experienced an outbreak of allergic conjunctivitis.
In my right eye, there is a prominent blood vessel that extends from the edge of the eye to near the cornea, and it appears raised.
The allergic conjunctivitis has slightly improved over the past month, but that prominent blood vessel has not diminished.
Will it eventually go away with time? Could this be related to the unresolved conjunctivitis, or is it due to vascular proliferation? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Miss Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Wang: Blood vessels do not form suddenly and become this prominent.
They likely existed before but have become more noticeable due to factors such as inflammation.
Once the inflammation resolves, they may shrink and become less prominent, but they should still remain.

Reply Date: 2022/04/19

More Info

When dealing with visible blood vessels in the eye, particularly after experiencing allergic conjunctivitis and undergoing laser treatment for a retinal tear, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential causes. The situation you describe, where a prominent blood vessel remains visible even after the allergic conjunctivitis has improved, can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, the appearance of a prominent blood vessel in the eye, especially after an episode of allergic conjunctivitis, is often due to the dilation of conjunctival blood vessels. Allergic conjunctivitis can cause inflammation and irritation of the conjunctiva, leading to increased blood flow to the area as the body responds to the allergen. This increased blood flow can make existing blood vessels more prominent, and in some cases, they may appear raised or engorged.

The fact that the blood vessel has not diminished in size or visibility after a month could indicate that the inflammation associated with the conjunctivitis has not fully resolved. Chronic inflammation can lead to persistent vascular changes, where the blood vessels remain dilated even after the initial cause of irritation has subsided. This is not uncommon, as the conjunctiva can take time to return to its baseline state after an inflammatory episode.

Additionally, the laser treatment you underwent for the retinal tear may also contribute to changes in the blood vessels of the eye. While laser treatment is generally safe and effective, it can sometimes lead to localized changes in the eye's vascular structure. However, it is essential to note that the visible blood vessel you are observing is likely a result of the conjunctival response rather than a direct consequence of the laser procedure.

Regarding your concern about whether this condition will improve over time, it is possible that the blood vessel may gradually become less prominent as the inflammation resolves completely. However, if the blood vessel remains visible for an extended period or if you experience any new symptoms, such as increased redness, discomfort, or changes in vision, it would be prudent to follow up with your eye care provider. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any other underlying conditions, such as conjunctival neovascularization, which is the growth of new blood vessels in response to chronic irritation or inflammation.

In terms of management, continuing to avoid known allergens and irritants is crucial. If you have not already done so, consider discussing with your doctor the possibility of using anti-inflammatory eye drops or other treatments that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the conjunctiva. It is also essential to maintain good eye hygiene and avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation and inflammation.

In summary, the visible blood vessel in your eye is likely a result of the inflammatory response from allergic conjunctivitis, and while it may take time to resolve, it is essential to monitor the situation. If you have any concerns or if the condition worsens, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation from your eye care professional. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.

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