Hyphema

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Hyphema is a medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye, which is the space between the cornea and the iris. This condition is often caused by trauma to the eye, but can also occur as a result of certain medical conditions or surgical procedures.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The most common cause of hyphema is trauma to the eye, such as a blow or a penetrating injury. Other causes can include abnormal blood vessels in the eye, bleeding disorders, cancer of the eye, or complications from eye surgery.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of hyphema can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They can include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of hyphema typically involves a thorough examination of the eye by an ophthalmologist. This can include a slit lamp examination, which allows the doctor to view the structures of the eye in detail. Other tests may include a visual acuity test, to measure the sharpness of vision, and an intraocular pressure test, to measure the pressure inside the eye.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hyphema depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may simply require rest and the use of over-the-counter pain medication. More severe cases may require hospitalization, to monitor the condition and prevent further complications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blood from the eye.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of hyphema primarily involves protecting the eyes from injury. This can include wearing protective eyewear during activities that could potentially cause eye injury, such as sports or certain types of work.

See also[edit | edit source]

Hyphema Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD, Dr.T