Summary about Disease
Hyphema is the presence of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye, the space between the cornea and the iris. It is usually caused by trauma to the eye, but can also occur spontaneously due to other medical conditions. The blood can partially or completely obscure vision.
Symptoms
Visible blood in the anterior chamber of the eye (ranging from a small layer to a complete filling)
Eye pain
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Blurred or blocked vision
Headache
Causes
Trauma: Blunt trauma to the eye is the most common cause (e.g., sports injuries, falls, car accidents).
Surgery: Following eye surgery.
Medical Conditions:
Abnormal blood vessels in the iris or ciliary body
Bleeding disorders (hemophilia, sickle cell disease)
Eye tumors
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Medications: Blood thinners (anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs)
Medicine Used
Topical Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation (e.g., prednisolone acetate).
Cycloplegic Agents: To dilate the pupil and relieve pain (e.g., atropine, cyclopentolate).
Aminocaproic Acid or Tranexamic Acid: To prevent re-bleeding, especially in cases of traumatic hyphema.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to manage pain. Avoid NSAIDs because they can increase bleeding risk.
Eye drops to lower eye pressure: If glaucoma develops
Is Communicable
No, hyphema is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Eye Shield: Wear an eye shield to protect the injured eye.
Rest: Rest and limit physical activity to prevent re-bleeding.
Elevate Head: Sleep with your head elevated to help the blood settle.
Avoid Aspirin/NSAIDs: Avoid aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can increase the risk of bleeding.
Follow Doctor's Instructions: Adhere strictly to your doctor's prescribed medications and follow-up appointments.
Avoid Rubbing Eye: Avoid rubbing the injured eye.
Limit Reading: Limit reading and other activities that require close focusing.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a hyphema outbreak varies depending on the severity and cause. Minor hyphemas may resolve within a few days to a week. More severe cases can take several weeks to clear completely. Recurrent bleeding can prolong the recovery time.
How is it diagnosed?
Eye Examination: A thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist.
Visual Acuity Test: To assess the extent of vision impairment.
Slit-Lamp Examination: A magnified view of the anterior chamber to evaluate the amount and location of blood.
Intraocular Pressure Measurement: To check for glaucoma.
Gonioscopy: To examine the drainage angle of the eye.
Imaging: CT scan or ultrasound may be performed to rule out other injuries.
Blood Tests: May be ordered to check for underlying bleeding disorders.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial Injury: Immediate pain and blurred vision.
Blood Appearance: Blood appears in the anterior chamber shortly after the injury, and the level of blood may increase over the first few days.
Re-bleeding: Re-bleeding may occur within the first few days or weeks, potentially worsening the condition.
Resolution: The blood gradually clears, and vision improves over a period of days to weeks.
Important Considerations
Glaucoma Risk: Hyphema can increase the risk of glaucoma (increased eye pressure), which can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Corneal Staining: Prolonged presence of blood can cause corneal staining.
Re-bleeding: A major concern with hyphema is the risk of re-bleeding, which can lead to complications.
Sickle Cell Disease: Hyphema in patients with sickle cell disease requires special attention and management due to the increased risk of complications.
Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor the condition and manage any complications.