Retinal vessel occlusion

Causes and Risks:
Retinal arteries and veins can become blocked by a blood clot , fat deposit, or a fragment of atherosclerotic plaque. Underlying disorders may be present such as glaucoma , hypertension , diabetes , coagulation disorders , atherosclerosis , and hyperlipidemia .

The vision loss after retinal vein occlusion is variable. Hemorrhage may be present, and the person may be at risk for developing glaucoma. In retinal artery occlusions, there is a profound visual loss . The degree of loss is, in part, related to the location of the occlusion. There is a risk of stroke because the emboli affecting the eye could also affect the brain.

Risk factors are related to the possible underlying disorders. The condition affects older people more frequently and is rare in children. The actual incidence is not reported.

Prevention:
The prevention measures useful in other vascular (blood vessel) diseases such as coronary artery disease may decrease the risk of retinal artery occlusion.

Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:
Tests to determine the integrity of the retina may include:



Treatment:
The dilation of retinal vessels by inhalation of carbon dioxide may be attempted. This treatment may allow the occlusion to move further down the vessel thereby, reducing the area of the retina that is affected.

In retinal artery occlusion, emergency treatment measures may affect the visual outcome. Anticoagulation may prevent further clot formation or the spread of clots, which could cause a stroke . A hemorrhage in the eye may be reabsorbed, and vision may improve.

Prognosis:
The outcome varies.

Complications:



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if sudden blurring or loss of vision occurs.