Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: When to Seek Further Medical Attention - Ophthalmology

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Subconjunctival hemorrhage, commonly referred to as "blood in the eye," occurs when small blood vessels in the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye) break, leading to a localized area of bleeding. This condition can be alarming, especially when it appears suddenly, but it is often benign and self-limiting. However, understanding when to seek further medical attention is crucial for ensuring eye health and addressing any underlying issues.

In your case, you mentioned that five days ago you noticed a blood clot on the white part of your eye, which has not shown signs of improvement and has changed shape. Initially, the doctor diagnosed it as subconjunctival hemorrhage and indicated that it would typically resolve within 3 to 5 days. The fact that the blood clot has changed from a raised, block-like shape to a flatter, arc-like shape could suggest that the blood is indeed moving or redistributing, which is not uncommon in such cases. However, the persistence of the hemorrhage beyond the expected timeframe raises some concerns.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Duration and Appearance: Subconjunctival hemorrhages usually resolve within a week. If the blood clot has not diminished in size or has changed in appearance significantly after five days, it may warrant further evaluation. The change in shape you described could indicate that the blood is pooling or that there may be a secondary bleeding event.

2. Symptoms: You mentioned experiencing itching in your eye and that you were prescribed eye drops. Itching can sometimes accompany subconjunctival hemorrhage, but if you experience increased redness, pain, vision changes, or discharge, these could be signs of an infection or other complications that require immediate medical attention.

3. Underlying Conditions: Although you do not have a history of hypertension or diabetes, other factors such as severe coughing, which you mentioned, can lead to increased pressure in the blood vessels and contribute to bleeding. If you had a recent episode of severe coughing, it could have played a role in the hemorrhage.

4. Follow-Up Care: Given that your condition has not improved as expected, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from an ophthalmologist. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any underlying issues, such as ocular trauma, blood disorders, or other eye conditions that may require treatment.

5. When to Seek Help: You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden changes in vision
- Severe pain in the eye
- Increased redness or swelling
- Discharge from the eye
- Symptoms of infection, such as fever or chills
In conclusion, while subconjunctival hemorrhage is often harmless and resolves on its own, your situation, characterized by the persistence of the blood clot and changes in its appearance, suggests that a follow-up with an eye specialist is warranted. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to eye health, so don't hesitate to seek further medical advice.