Scary, but usually a cosmetic problem A subconjunctival hemorrhage appears as a sharply outlined, bright red spot on the white part of the eye. Most of the time, no symptoms accompany these hemorrhages. Many people become alarmed by the sudden onset of this common problem, even though it is not associated with any diseases that cause vision loss. The most common cause of a subconjunctival hemorrhage is simple rubbing of the eyes. Only rarely is the condition associated with high blood pressure or other bleeding problems. No treatment is needed. Subconjunctival hemorrhages will go away and only be a cosmetic problem for a few days.