Blood in the Eye (Hyphema) Treatment for Children Q&A

At Pedi Center Urgent Care, we understand that eye injuries and conditions in children can be concerning for parents. One condition we commonly evaluate and manage is hyphema—a condition where blood collects within the anterior chamber of the eye. This anterior chamber is the clear fluid-filled space located between the cornea (the transparent front layer of the eye) and the iris (the colored part of the eye).

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 bleeding typically results from trauma to the eye, such as a direct blow or injury, but can also occur due to underlying medical conditions like blood clotting disorders or eye surgeries. The blood can partially or completely cover the iris and pupil, potentially obstructing vision and causing discomfort.

The severity of hyphema can vary, ranging from a small amount of blood that settles at the bottom of the eye to a total filling of the anterior chamber. Symptoms often include blurred or decreased vision, eye pain, light sensitivity, and a visible reddish tint in the eye. Because hyphema can increase intraocular pressure and cause damage to the optic nerve if left untreated, timely medical evaluation is crucial to prevent complications like glaucoma or permanent vision loss.

Treatment for hyphema depends on the severity and underlying cause. Mild cases may be managed with rest, eye protection, and medications to reduce inflammation and control intraocular pressure. More severe cases might require surgical intervention to remove the blood and prevent further damage. Follow-up care is essential to monitor eye pressure and ensure proper healing, especially in children, who may be more vulnerable to complications.

At our pediatric urgent care, we understand how concerning it can be for parents when a child experiences an eye injury or sudden vision changes. One condition we commonly evaluate and manage is hyphema, which refers to a collection of blood in the front chamber of the eye (the area between the clear surface called the cornea and the colored part known as the iris).

Hyphema typically occurs after an injury to the eye. We frequently see hyphema resulting from common childhood accidents, such as:

• Sports-related injuries (soccer balls, baseball bats, or hockey sticks)
• Accidental falls
• Blunt impact from objects or toys

In some cases, hyphema can develop even without significant trauma. Certain medical conditions can predispose children to bleeding within the eye, including:

• Blood disorders (such as hemophilia or sickle cell anemia)
• Eye abnormalities (juvenile xanthogranuloma, iris tumors, or abnormal blood vessel growth)
• Inflammatory conditions of the eye (uveitis)

Less commonly, hyphema may occur following eye surgeries like cataract or glaucoma procedures, or due to side effects from medications that affect blood clotting.

At Pedi Center Urgent Care, our experienced pediatric team is specially trained to quickly recognize and evaluate hyphema in children. When your child arrives with an eye injury or symptoms suggesting hyphema, our friendly and compassionate providers begin by conducting a thorough physical exam and reviewing your child’s recent medical history, including any events or trauma that may have caused the injury. We pay close attention to symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, as these can indicate the presence of hyphema.

During the visit, our pediatric specialists utilize specialized equipment to accurately examine the internal structures of your child’s eye. This allows our team to clearly identify and measure any blood accumulation in the anterior chamber—the clear, fluid-filled space between the cornea and the iris. Determining the amount and severity of bleeding helps guide our team in choosing the most appropriate treatment plan for your child’s specific situation.

In certain cases, our team may recommend further imaging studies or additional assessments to rule out associated injuries and complications, making sure your child receives the safest and most effective care possible.

At Pedi Center Urgent Care, we are committed to providing prompt, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for hyphema, so your child can quickly return to enjoying clear, healthy vision. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at Niles Street, and Wible Road in Bakersfield, CA. We serve patients from Bakersfield CA, Maltha CA, Kayandee CA, Rosedale CA, Oildale CA, Lamont CA, and surrounding areas.