The white portion of the eye (sclera) can appear red when the
vessels on the surface become enlarged. This may result from
mechanical irritation, environmental irritants (such as extremely
dry air, excess sun exposure), allergic reactions, infection, and
other medical conditions. A bright red, uniformly dense bloody area
on the sclera results from a small amount of bleeding (hemorrhage)
into the conjunctiva. It is a fairly common occurrence and is
usually caused by straining or coughing. It generally clears up on
its own after a few days.
Review Date: 01/04/2011
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz.
Previously reviewed by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director,
MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University
of Washington, School of Medicine (8/31/2010).
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
