Retinal artery occlusion is a sudden blockage of one of the arteries supplying blood to the retina. It is sometimes described as a stroke of the eye and can cause abrupt, painless loss of vision.
Types and implications
Central retinal artery occlusion affects the whole retina, while branch occlusions involve a segment. The condition is an emergency and is frequently associated with cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes and carotid artery disease.
- Vision loss may be profound and permanent, especially in central occlusion
- Urgent systemic evaluation is needed to look for underlying causes
- Some cases may benefit from rapid interventions to improve blood flow
- Long-term management focuses on reducing the risk of further vascular events
Further information
Acute retinal vascular occlusions are assessed urgently within medical retina and vitreoretinal services at Blue Fin Vision®. Related information on retinal bleeding and systemic associations is discussed in what is Valsalva retinopathy?.
