What causes eye pain and bleeding?

Nov 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, eye pain with bleeding may be caused by excessive eye strain leading to conjunctival congestion and rupture, eye injury damaging blood vessels, bacterial conjunctivitis, viral keratitis, or hyphema (blood accumulation in the anterior chamber). It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is important to develop good eye care habits, avoid rubbing the eyes, and maintain proper eye hygiene.

Generally, eye pain with bleeding may be caused by excessive eye strain leading to conjunctival congestion and rupture, ocular trauma damaging blood vessels, bacterial conjunctivitis, viral keratitis, or hyphema (blood accumulation in the anterior chamber), among other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive eye use causing conjunctival congestion and rupture: Prolonged screen time can fatigue the eyes, leading to dilated and ruptured conjunctival blood vessels, resulting in pain and visible bloodshot appearance. Immediately stop using the eyes, close them to rest, and gently apply a warm towel compress to the eyes for 10 minutes. Regular use of sodium hyaluronate eye drops can help relieve dryness.

2. Ocular trauma damaging blood vessels: Physical impact or excessive rubbing of the eye can damage superficial blood vessels, causing pain and bleeding. Mild cases can be managed with cold compresses to control bleeding; avoid rubbing the eye. If the wound is deep, prompt debridement is necessary, and eyelid lacerations may require surgical repair through suturing.

3. Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacterial infection causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, leading to vascular congestion and swelling that may easily rupture, often accompanied by purulent discharge. Follow medical advice to use antibiotic eye medications such as tobramycin eye drops, levofloxacin eye drops, or erythromycin eye ointment, and maintain good ocular hygiene.

4. Viral keratitis: Viral invasion of the cornea causes inflammation, damaging corneal tissue and surrounding blood vessels, often accompanied by photophobia and tearing. Antiviral treatments such as acyclovir eye drops, ganciclovir ophthalmic gel, or recombinant human interferon α2b eye drops should be used as prescribed. Prevent cross-infection through proper hygiene measures.

5. Hyphema: Blunt ocular trauma can cause rupture of iris blood vessels, leading to blood accumulation in the anterior chamber, resulting in severe pain and decreased vision. Patients should rest in a semi-upright position. Tranexamic acid tablets may be used as directed to control bleeding. In severe cases, anterior chamber paracentesis may be performed to remove accumulated blood and prevent elevated intraocular pressure.

To reduce the risk of eye pain and bleeding, develop healthy visual habits, avoid rubbing the eyes, and maintain good eye hygiene. Wear protective eyewear when outdoors to prevent foreign body entry or physical injury to the eyes.