Retinal Artery Obstruction
Retinal artery obstruction occurs when there is a blockage of the blood flow to the back of
the eye, where the retina is located. The part of the retina which has lost its blood supply
abruptly ceases to function, causing visual impairment. In effect, retinal artery obstruction
is like a stroke in the eye. And, just like in strokes, the damage can be relatively mild or quite
severe, depending on the location of the blockage and the extent to which the blood flow has been
disrupted.
There is currently no treatment to improve vision after retinal artery obstruction. Some
patients experience a substantial improvement in vision that usually occurs in the first
few hours or days after onset of the symptoms.
It is extremely important that your eye care is closely followed after a retinal artery
obstruction. An uncommon but significant complication is the development of a severe form of
glaucoma, which can completely eliminate vision and cause the eye to be red and painful. Laser
treatment can be used to reduce the glaucoma, though it does not improve vision.
In general, patients with a "central" (main artery) or "branch" retinal artery obstruction
requires an evaluation to look for the source of the blockage. Often the blockage is the result
of hardening of the arteries, with a fragment of cholesterol or a clot breaking off from a large
blood vessel and floating to eventually obstruct a smaller blood vessel in the eye. An evaluation
by your primary healthcare professional or cardiologist is usually quite helpful in identifying
the source of the obstruction. It may be necessary to undergo blood tests or other diagnostic
tests such as ultrasound of the heart and neck. Sometimes a blood-thinning medication is helpful
in preventing any further blockages from forming. Though these medications will not improve the
sight in your affected eye, they may have a long-term benefit for you.
If a patient experiences any marked decrease in vision, or if the eye becomes painful, see
your doctor immediately. Otherwise, keep to scheduled appointments.
Risk Factors for CRAO and CRVO
CRVO and CRAO usually occurs in people between the ages of 50 and 70. The most common medical
problem associated with CRVO and CRAO is high blood pressure. , Carotid artery disease may also be a
factor.
Are there any restrictions or precautions for patients with vascular occlusions?
There is no reason to limit one’s activities (such as reading, watching TV, etc.). However, when you
have blurred vision in one eye for any reason, your depth perception is impaired. If this is true for
you, you should be very careful doing anything that requires you to judge distances, such as using
machinery, climbing ladders, pouring hot or hazardous liquids, or driving.
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