The white part of my eye just turned red. no real vison problems or pain. what just happened white male 56 years old

Hello. : Hello. Can't diagnose this via an internet format. However, did you sneeze, bear down hard for a bowel movement or otherwise strain? This could be a subconjunctival hemorrhage - which means some bleeding from the tiny vessels in that area. If that was the cause, it would normally resolve by itself. However, if you have worsening symptoms or any change to your vision, you should see an opthamologist. Take care.

Redness : Redness on the white of the eye without associated discomfort is almost always a subconjunctival hemorrhage which is nothing more than a bruise. It almost always occurs because of rubbing of the eye. Most people rub their eyes because they are dry. I suggest that you use artificial tear drops to make the eyes more comfortable and avoid rubbing your eyes. Expect the redness to go away in about the same time that any other bruise on your body would disappear.

You : You are describing a classic example of a subconjunctival hemorrhage as other doctors have indicated. Depending on the amount of the bleed, it will resolve in one to two weeks. It is a benign condition. It is caused by straining (as in constipation or sneezing), taking of blood thinner ( as in aspirin, coumadin, (warfarin) plavix, etc...), or trauma (eye rubbing included).