Expert explains why rubbing your eyes can cause scary red patches

Discovering a vivid red patch on the white of your eye can be a terrifying experience, often looking like a serious injury has occurred out of nowhere.

However, Dr Kunal Sood, an interventional pain medicine physician, explains that this striking sight is usually a subconjunctival haemorrhage.

In an Instagram update shared on Monday, he broke down why these spots appear and when they actually require a doctor’s visit.

The bright red marks occur when tiny, fragile blood vessels rupture just beneath the eye's clear surface.

“Have you ever noticed a bright red spot over the white part of your eye and wondered what that is? It might be a subconjunctival haemorrhage.

The conjunctiva, the clear layer over the white part of your eye, has tiny blood vessels. When these blood vessels break, blood leaks between the conjunctiva and sclera, creating these red spots.”

While the appearance is dramatic, Dr Sood insists it is usually nothing to fear. “The good news is most of the time it is harmless and will heal on its own.

"Most common causes include coughing, sneezing, straining, or rubbing your eyes too hard.” That said, if these episodes become a regular occurrence, it might be your body’s way of signalling a deeper issue.

“If you notice you do get frequent subconjunctival haemorrhages, it is best to consult with your doctor as this may be a sign of an underlying disease such as diabetes and hypertension.”

Reader's Note: This article is for informational purposes only and not a stand-in for professional medical guidance.