Bleeding Inside the Eye
Known in the medical jargon as hyphema, bleeding in the eye is a condition in which blood pools behind the cornea. It is often caused by an eye injury. It is one of the most common forms of sports injuries.
Most cases of hyphema are not serious, especially if they appear after the eyes are exposed to trauma like getting hit by a ball or a jab in the face in contact sports. However, hyphema can also be caused by serious diseases and conditions like diabetes, leukemia, hemophilia, sickle cell disease, and Von Willebrand disease.
Eyesight blurring and distortion as a consequence of hyphema are usually temporary. It disappears over time, even when the blood pooling in the eye is still visible. In many cases, those affected only have to take a rest. However, they may need to wear an eyepatch and ensure their head is elevated. Hospitalization is often not required, but it is advisable to consult a physician.
A health professional should examine the eyes to ascertain that it is not serious. Tonometry, ultrasound, and electroencephalogram (EEG) tests may be undertaken to ensure that the hyphema does not progress into a worse and life-threatening condition.
