What is the primary characteristic of subconjunctival hemorrhage?

The primary characteristic of subconjunctival hemorrhage is its appearance as a bright red spot on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. This condition occurs when tiny blood vessels break beneath the conjunctiva, leading to a localized pooling of blood. The bright red hue is quite distinctive and is often alarming to patients, but the presence of this spotting is usually benign and does not indicate a serious underlying condition.

Other features of subconjunctival hemorrhage include that it typically does not cause significant pain or visual changes, which can help distinguish it from more serious eye issues. Moreover, it is not infectious, marking it as a non-infectious condition often associated with minor trauma, increased pressure (coughing, sneezing), or even spontaneously. Understanding this characteristic helps in reassuring patients and guiding appropriate management.