Retinal artery occlusion, commonly known as an eye stroke, can result in sudden vision loss and requires immediate action. Understanding the risks and symptoms is vital to preserve your sight and overall vascular health.
Retinal artery occlusion (RAO), often known as an eye stroke, occurs when a blockage prevents blood from reaching the retina, the light-sensing tissue that helps you see. This condition mimics the effects of a brain stroke—only it affects the eye—with sudden vision loss as a primary warning sign. It is a serious, vision-threatening emergency that demands immediate medical attention.
Retinal artery occlusion happens when a blood clot or cholesterol buildup hinders the flow of blood through one or more arteries in the retina. Essentially, if you imagine the arteries as pipelines supplying oxygen and nutrients, a blockage in these pipelines can starve your retinal tissue, sometimes producing irreversible damage.
This condition is commonly linked to high blood pressure and heart disease, both of which damage the delicate blood vessels of the eye. When these arteries get blocked, the retina does not receive the oxygen it needs, and the resulting damage is often compared to a stroke in the brain.
There are three main types of retinal artery occlusion, each defined by the location and extent of the blockage:
Understanding these types helps clarify the severity of symptoms and the urgency required for treatment. Recognizing that each type affects different portions of the retina reinforces why any sudden vision changes must be taken seriously.
If you or someone you know experiences sudden vision changes, seek emergency care immediately. Find a top ophthalmologist near you through Specialty Vision.
Sudden, painless vision loss is the hallmark symptom of a retinal artery occlusion. Since the blockage interrupts the essential blood supply, the retina’s ability to function properly is compromised rapidly. Here’s what patients might notice if they experience an RAO:
If any of these symptoms develop, especially in just one eye and without pain, it is critical to seek immediate emergency care. Time is of the essence, as prompt intervention can sometimes prevent further complications, even if it does not always reverse the vision loss.
Several health issues and lifestyle factors increase the risk of an eye stroke. RAO has been observed more often in individuals who have pre-existing vascular conditions or those in older age groups, notably people in their sixties. Both men and women are affected, though men tend to be slightly more at risk.
Risk factors include:
These conditions can damage the inner walls of the arteries, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup and blood clots. Recognizing these risk factors can play a key role in both preventing an eye stroke and mitigating its impact if it occurs.
If you or someone you know experiences sudden vision changes, seek emergency care immediately. Find a top ophthalmologist near you through Specialty Vision.
Retinal artery occlusion can lead to sudden vision loss and is often a sign of broader vascular health issues. Understand the risks today.
