Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO) can significantly affect your vision due to blocked retinal arteries. It's essential to understand its symptoms and seek timely management.
Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO) is a condition where a blockage in one of the small retinal arteries prevents oxygen from reaching part of your eye. This sudden interruption of blood flow can result in a noticeable loss of vision in a specific area of your visual field. Early detection and management are important because BRAO may be linked to significant underlying health issues.
In simple terms, BRAO occurs when one of the smaller branches of the central retinal artery becomes blocked. Since the retina relies on a continuous supply of oxygen to work properly, any disruption—no matter how small—can affect the way you see. While BRAO rarely results in total blindness, it typically causes permanent vision loss in the area the blocked artery supplies, which may appear as a blind spot in your peripheral vision.
Here’s the thing: even though many people continue to maintain good central vision after a BRAO event, the impact on the affected area can be profound. It is estimated that BRAO constitutes about 38% of all retinal artery blockages. Understanding and treating this condition requires attention not only to your eye health but also to potential systemic issues that might lie beneath the surface.
Your retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, is nourished by the central retinal artery that splits into several smaller branches. When one of these branches gets blocked, the corresponding section of the retina is deprived of oxygen. Let’s break this down a bit:
This blockage is akin to a “mini-stroke” in your eye. Just like other forms of vascular events in the body, the development of BRAO is a red flag that should prompt further evaluation of your overall health.
If you notice sudden changes in your vision, contact us immediately for a comprehensive evaluation by our eye doctors.
Understanding the root causes of BRAO can help in both prevention and management. The most common culprits include:
Each of these causes shares a common theme: they either create an environment where a blockage is more likely or directly introduce a blockage into the retinal artery system. For patients, recognizing these underlying issues early can be vital, as addressing them may help prevent further complications.
While BRAO can technically affect anyone, certain groups are more susceptible. Older adults, especially those with systemic conditions that affect blood flow, are at a higher risk. Some of the main risk factors include:
It is important to note in rare instances, BRAO may occur in younger individuals who have specific clotting disorders or underlying autoimmune diseases. If you have any of these conditions or risk factors, it is crucial to keep up with regular medical checkups and eye exams. Our eye doctors recommend paying extra attention to any changes in vision, as they can be early signals of a more serious health issue.
If you notice sudden changes in your vision, contact us immediately for a comprehensive evaluation by our eye doctors.
Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO) can lead to sudden vision loss. Early detection and management are crucial for your eye health.
