---
title: Hyphema
description: "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…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/hyphema/"
updated: "2025-12-16"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Hyphema

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