When a tiny blood vessel breaks just underneath the clear surface of the eye (conjunctiva), it causes a condition known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage or a broken blood vessel in the eye. This can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Violent coughing
• Powerful sneezing
• Straining (during coughing, sneezing, vomiting, or while using the toilet)
• Vomiting
• Roughly rubbing the eye
• Trauma, such as a foreign object injuring the eye
• Lifting something heavy
• Straining during a bowel movement
• Eye surgery
• Injury or puncture to the eye

Additionally, certain health conditions and risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), blood-clotting disorders, and the use of blood thinners, can make individuals more prone to subconjunctival hemorrhages. Its important to note that while a subconjunctival hemorrhage may look alarming, its usually a harmless condition that clears up without treatment within two weeks or so. If recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages or other bleeding occur, its advisable to consult a doctor to identify any underlying causes or potential issues.