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Bleeding Inside the Eye

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Bleeding Inside the Eye

Bleeding Inside the Eye

Intraocular hemorrhage is a serious eye condition that occurs when the blood vessels inside the eye rupture or leak, causing blood to accumulate within the eye. The accumulation of blood inside the complex structures of the eye directly affects visual function. Depending on the location, amount and cause of the bleeding, vision loss may range from mild blurriness to complete loss of vision.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that intraocular hemorrhages are an emergency condition and that if not treated promptly, they may lead to permanent vision loss.

Types of Intraocular Hemorrhages

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

This type of bleeding occurs beneath the conjunctiva and is usually harmless. It appears as bright red patches on the white part of the eye. It may result from simple causes such as trauma, sudden coughing, sneezing or the use of blood-thinning medications.

Vitreous Hemorrhage

This occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous cavity — the gel-like substance filling the inside of the eye. Symptoms include dark floating spots, shadows and flashes of light in the visual field. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vitreous hemorrhage.

Op. Dr. Diclehan states that vitreous hemorrhage is one of the highest-risk causes of vision loss and that treatment should never be delayed.

Retinal Hemorrhage

This type of bleeding results from rupture of the small retinal blood vessels and may significantly impair visual acuity. It is most often seen in patients with hypertension, vascular occlusions and diabetes.

Hyphema (Anterior Chamber Hemorrhage)

This occurs when blood accumulates in the anterior chamber between the iris and the cornea — usually after trauma. It blocks the visual axis and requires urgent medical treatment.

Causes of Intraocular Hemorrhage

Trauma

Sports injuries, falls, traffic accidents or blunt force trauma to the eye are among the most common causes.

Systemic Diseases

  • Diabetes: Especially diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause
  • Hypertension: High blood pressure weakens vessel walls and may cause bleeding
  • Atherosclerosis: Fragile blood vessels increase the risk of bleeding

Blood Disorders

Coagulation defects or uncontrolled use of anticoagulants increase the risk of bleeding.

Eye Diseases

Retinal tears, vascular occlusions and eye tumors are other important causes.

Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses the importance of regular eye examinations especially for diabetic patients  to reduce the risk of intraocular bleeding.

Symptoms of Intraocular Hemorrhage

  • Blurred vision or sudden vision loss
  • Flashes of light
  • Black spots or floaters in the visual field
  • Pressure and pain in the eye
  • Redness and swelling

The severity of symptoms varies according to the location and size of the hemorrhage.

Diagnostic Methods

Eye Examination

Visual acuity and intraocular pressure are assessed during a detailed ophthalmologic evaluation.

Ophthalmoscopy

Used to determine the location and extent of bleeding in the retina and vitreous.

Ocular Ultrasonography

Helps visualize the inner structures of the eye when dense hemorrhage limits visibility.

Retinal Angiography

Reveals vascular blockages and leakage areas in detail.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that using modern imaging technology plays a key role in accurate diagnosis and successful treatment.

Treatment of Intraocular Hemorrhage

Depending on the cause, corticosteroids, vascular-strengthening medications or regulation of blood-thinning drugs may be required.

Laser Therapy

In diabetic retinopathy-related hemorrhages, abnormal vessels are sealed with laser treatment to prevent further bleeding.

Vitrectomy Surgery

Commonly used in vitreous hemorrhage  the blood-filled vitreous gel is removed and replaced with special solutions.

Management of Underlying Diseases

Controlling diabetes, hypertension and blood disorders is critical to preventing recurrence.

Prevention of Intraocular Hemorrhage

  • Keep diabetes and hypertension under control
  • Have regular eye examinations
  • Use protective eyewear during sports or risky activities
  • Use blood-thinning medications only under medical supervision
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that with regular follow-up and early treatment — especially in diabetic individuals — the risk of vision loss can be significantly reduced.

Intraocular hemorrhage is a serious eye condition that should never be ignored. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, vision loss can often be prevented. People with risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension should undergo regular eye examinations.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that anyone experiencing intraocular bleeding should seek urgent evaluation by an eye specialist, as early intervention is the most effective way to prevent permanent vision loss.