Subconjunctival hemorrhage is a blood spot on the white of your eye. It looks serious, but it is usually harmless. Subconjunctival hemorrhage is caused by a broken blood vessel in the eye, which often happens when coughing, sneezing or straining leads to a quick rise in blood pressure. Trauma to the eye—even rubbing your eye too hard—can also cause subconjunctival hemorrhage.

A subconjunctival hemorrhage will heal on its own without treatment within a few days to a few weeks.

If you have any questions about your eyes or your vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. He or she is committed to protecting your sight.