What is a potential cause of a subconjunctival hemorrhage?

A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when there is bleeding underneath the conjunctiva, the clear surface that covers the white part of the eye. One of the common causes of this condition is coughing or straining. When a person coughs forcefully, sneezes, or engages in activities that involve straining, such as lifting heavy objects, the increased intrathoracic pressure can cause small blood vessels in the conjunctiva to rupture, leading to blood accumulating in that area.

This kind of hemorrhage typically presents as a bright red patch on the sclera (the white part of the eye) and is usually benign, often resolving on its own without treatment. Understanding this mechanism is essential for recognizing how physical activities, especially those involving sudden increases in pressure, can directly lead to such hemorrhages.