A burst blood vessel in eye from coughing creates a bright red spot due to ruptured capillaries under the clear surface of the eye. This common condition, called a subconjunctival hemorrhage, typically appears suddenly and can look alarming but is usually harmless.
When you cough forcefully, pressure increases in your chest and abdomen. This pressure can transfer to your head, causing tiny blood vessels in your eyes to rupture. The conjunctiva-the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of your eye-has many small blood vessels that can break under sudden strain.
Subconjunctival hemorrhages can occur from various causes, including:
A burst blood vessel in the eye from coughing appears as a bright red or dark red spot on the white part of the eye. The area may look swollen or raised slightly. Unlike other eye conditions, this type of hemorrhage usually doesn't cause pain, vision changes, or discharge. The redness typically fades within a few days to a couple of weeks as the blood is absorbed.
Most subconjunctival hemorrhages from coughing don't require treatment. The redness will fade on its own as the blood is reabsorbed. However, you can take steps to reduce discomfort and speed up recovery:
If the redness persists beyond two weeks or if you experience pain, vision changes, or frequent hemorrhages, consult a healthcare provider. These could indicate an underlying condition, such as high blood pressure or a bleeding disorder.
While a burst blood vessel in the eye from coughing can look frightening, it's usually harmless. Understanding the cause and knowing how to manage it can help you stay calm and ensure proper healing.