A hyphema is a pooling or collection of blood inside the anterior chamber of the eye (the space between the cornea and the iris). The blood may cover most or all of the iris and the pupil, blocking vision partially or completely.A hyphema is usually painful. If left untreated, it can cause permanent vision problems.

A hyphema is usually caused by trauma to the eye and is accompanied by an increase in intraocular pressure (the pressure inside the eye). However, it may appear without warning in children who have other medical conditions such as sickle cell anemia or hemophilia.

Symptoms of Hyphema

The symptoms of a hyphema are relatively simple. They include:

• visible blood in the front of the eye
• sensitivity to light
• pain
• blurry, clouded, or blocked vision
• blood might not be visible if the hyphema is small

Causes of Hyphema

The most common cause of hyphema is eye trauma, usually from a sports injury, home or workplace accident, or fall. A hyphema can also be caused by:

• abnormal blood vessels on the surface of the iris (colored part of the eye)
• eye infection caused by the herpes virus
• blood clotting problems such as hemophilia and sickle cell anemia
• intraocular lens problems (artificial lens implants)
• cancer of the eye

Complications of Hyphema

When a hyphema is present, there are certain complications that a person can experience. These may include:

• Glaucoma. This condition is characterized by pressure in the eye increasing. If glaucoma is not treated, it can lead to blindness.
• Eye structure damage. This condition can sometimes lead to corneal blood staining. In some cases, this can result in permanently cloudy vision.
• Recurrent bleeding. It is possible for a hyphema to bleed again. This is more common with more severe cases.
• Vision loss. It is important that a hyphema is viewed as an emergency and treated immediately. Without immediate treatment, vision loss is possible.

Treatment for Hyphema

Depending on the severity of a hyphema and associated risk factors, your eye doctor may recommend a combination of the following precautions and treatments:

• Limited physical activity

• Head elevation (including when sleeping)
• Wearing an eye shield
• Frequent follow-up visits for a few weeks or months
• Pain medicine
• Anti-inflammatory medicine (topical or oral)
• Other medications

In the case of a severe hyphema, surgery may be required.

Also, routine eye exam are very important after having a hyphema, as your risk of elevated eye pressure and glaucoma may be higher even years later.

Prevention of Hyphema

Any time there is trauma to the eye, a hyphema can occur. When playing contact sports or doing any activity where an eye injury could occur, it is imperative to wear protective eyewear and take the proper precautions to protect the eyes from impact.

A hyphema is a condition that should be treated promptly. It could happen to anyone, so using preventative measures is imperative.

Due to the risk of complications, if anyone suspects they have a hyphema, they should consult a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.

Media Contact:

Sarah Rose

Journal Manager Journal of Eye Diseases and Disorderss

Email: eyedisorders@emedsci.com

Watsapp:+1-947-333-4405