What is Hyphema?
Hyphema is a condition where blood collects in the front part of the eye, known as the anterior chamber. It occurs when there is bleeding from damaged blood vessels in the iris or ciliary body in the eye. The pooling of blood can partially or completely block vision.
What Causes Hyphema?
There are several potential causes of hyphema:
- Blunt eye trauma - This is the most common cause and can occur from sports injuries, being hit in the eye, falls, or car accidents where the eye gets struck. The impact can tear blood vessels and cause bleeding.
- Eye surgery - Operations on the iris or cornea can potentially lead to bleeding and hyphema.
- Eye diseases - Certain disorders like retinoblastoma, iris melanoma, or neovascular glaucoma can result in abnormal blood vessels and bleeding.
- Medication side effects - Blood thinners and certain medications can increase bleeding risk.
Hyphema Symptoms
The main symptoms of hyphema include:
- Blood in the front of the eye - This appears as a red or dark pooling of blood.
- Blurred vision - Mild to complete vision loss can occur depending on the amount of bleeding.
- Eye pain - A dull ache or sharp pain in the affected eye.
- Light sensitivity - Bright lights may be uncomfortable or painful.
- Headache - Especially around the eye area.
Diagnosing Hyphema
An ophthalmologist will diagnose hyphema through:
- Medical history - Discussing any recent eye trauma, surgery, or medications.
- Eye exam - Looking for blood pooled in the anterior chamber with a slit lamp. Measuring intraocular pressure.
- Imaging - CT or ultrasound to see if there is any retinal or orbital damage.
Hyphema Treatment and Recovery
Treatment focuses on allowing the blood to reabsorb while preventing further bleeding and eye damage. Steps include:
- Resting the eye - Little physical activity and use of the affected eye.
- Eye shields - Patching or protective eyewear.
- Medications - Steroids, antibiotics, eye drops to prevent increased eye pressure.
- Surgery - Rarely needed for severe, uncontrolled bleeding.
With proper treatment, mild cases can resolve in 1-2 weeks. More severe hyphema may take a month or more to fully recover. Vision usually returns to normal but in some cases permanent damage can occur. Regular follow up is key.
Contact us at https://bhartieyefoundation.in/ to schedule an appointment for your hyphma treatment. We are honored to offer seamless eye care services because we truly think that "every eye deserves the best."
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