---
title: Retinal hemorrhage
description: "Retinal haemorrhage is bleeding within or beneath the retinal layers. It is a sign rather than a diagnosis and has many potential causes. ## Causes and patterns Location and shape of haemorrhages give diagnostic clues. - Dot-and-blot haemorrhages in diabetic…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/retinal-hemorrhage/"
updated: "2025-12-17"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Retinal hemorrhage

Retinal haemorrhage is bleeding within or beneath the retinal layers. It is a sign rather than a diagnosis and has many potential causes.

## Causes and patterns

Location and shape of haemorrhages give diagnostic clues.

- Dot-and-blot haemorrhages in diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy
- Flame-shaped haemorrhages in nerve fibre layer from vascular or pressure changes
- Preretinal or subhyaloid haemorrhages from trauma, Valsalva, or vein occlusion
- Associated systemic conditions include blood dyscrasias and infection

## Management

Treatment targets the underlying cause and monitors for complications.

- Full ocular and systemic work-up, often including blood pressure and laboratory tests
- Observation for small, stable haemorrhages
- Laser, injections, or surgery for cases with macular involvement or neovascularisation
- Urgent review if haemorrhage is sudden with severe vision loss or trauma history