Hyphema is bleeding into the front chamber of the eye, usually after blunt trauma. It can raise eye pressure and threaten vision if not monitored closely.
Signs and common causes
Patients often notice sudden pain and blurred vision after an injury. Some have only microscopic blood visible on examination.
- Layer of blood or reddish tinge visible in front of the iris
- Caused by sports injuries, falls, or other blunt impacts
- Higher risk in people with blood disorders or on blood thinners
- Occasional spontaneous cases linked to other eye disease
Management principles
Treatment focuses on protecting the eye while the blood reabsorbs. Follow-up is crucial, especially in the first week.
- Rest with head elevated, eye shield use, and avoidance of strenuous activity
- Pressure-lowering and anti-inflammatory drops when needed
- More frequent review in sickle cell disease or large hyphemas
- Surgical washout in selected cases with uncontrolled pressure or corneal staining
