Sometimes small blood vessels in the whites of the eyes can break, causing a red spot or speck. This is called a subconjunctival hemorrhage. The blood vessels may break when sneezing, coughing, vomiting, straining, or bending over, but sometimes there is no clear cause. The blood may look alarming, especially if the spot is large. If there is no pain or vision change, there is usually no cause for concern, and the blood will go away in 2 to 3 weeks.

When there is bleeding into the eye, do not take aspirin or aspirin-related products, which can increase bleeding. Use acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) instead.

Bleeding between the colored part of the eye (iris) and the cornea may occur with an injury and is much more serious than bleeding in the white of the eye. This is called hyphema. It can occur from a blunt blow to the eye or from an object puncturing and penetrating the eye. There may be mild pain or no pain at all. Vision changes may also occur. A hyphema needs to be evaluated by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist).

Medications that help prevent blood clots may increase the risk of bleeding in both the white or colored part of the eye.