Hyposphagma

The hyposphagma is a hemorrhage under the conjunctiva, of the transparent tissue covering the sclera, the “white” of the surface of the eye. It occurs after rupture of a small vessel. The vast majority occur in only one eye.

Συνήθως εμφανίζεται χωρίς κάποια αιτία ή κατόπιν ακόμα κι ελαφρού τραυματισμού, ως επί το πλείστον σε ηλικίες άνω των 60 ετών.

It usually occurs without any cause or even minor injury, mostly at ages over 60. Possible challenging factors are:

  • Coughing, sneezing

  • Lifting heavy weight
  • Conjunctival infections
  • Rubbing of the eyes
  • Dry eye
  • Blood coagulation disorders
  • Arterial hypertension

Although it looks scary it is usually completely harmless. In case of frequent hyposphagmas it is recommended to control blood pressure and exclude a disorder of blood coagulation.

The hyposphagma doesn’t need treatment. In case of mild discomfort, it is recommended to use artificial tears. Its absorption lasts 5 to 10 days.In case of disturbance of vision, eye pain, photosensitivity or headache, immediate ophthalmological examination is required.