---
title: What is retinal artery occlusion?
description: "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…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-retinal-artery-occlusion/"
updated: "2025-12-11"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is retinal artery occlusion?

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?](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-valsalva-retinopathy/).