what is Hyphema ?
Hyphema is blood in the front area of the eye.
Causes
Hyphema is usually caused by trauma to the eye. Other causes of bleeding in the front chamber of the eye include:
- Blood vessel abnormality
- Cancer of the eye
- Severe inflammation of the iris
Symptoms
- Bleeding in the front portion of the eye
- Eye pain
- Light sensitivity
- Vision abnormalities
Exams and Tests
- Eye examination
- Intraocular pressure measurement (tonometry)
- Ultrasound testing
Treatment
In some mild cases, no treatment is needed. The blood is absorbed in a few days.
The health care provider may recommend bed rest, eye patching, and sedation to reduce the likelihood of recurrent bleeding.
Eye drops to decrease the inflammation or lower the intraocular pressure may be used if needed.
The
ophthalmologist may need to remove the blood, especially if the
intraocular pressure is severely increased or the blood is slow to
absorb again. You may need to stay in a hospital.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome depends upon the amount of injury to the eye. Patients with sickle cell disease are more likely to have eye complications and must be monitored more carefully.
Severe vision loss can occur.
Possible Complications
- Acute glaucoma
- Impaired vision
- Recurring bleeding
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call
your health care provider if you notice blood in the front of the eye
or you have a traumatic eye injury. You will need prompt diagnosis and
treatment by an ophthalmologist.
Prevention
Many
eye injuries can be prevented by wearing safety goggles or other
protective eye wear. Always wear eye protection while playing sports
such as racquetball, or contact sports such as basketball.
References
Tingey DP, Shingleton BJ. Glaucoma associated with ocular trauma. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 10.17.
source:http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001021.htm
