Retinal vascular occlusion occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries or veins in the retina, resulting in impaired blood circulation in the eye. Arterial occlusions cause sudden vision loss and require urgent intervention. Venous occlusions can lead to blood buildup and retinal hemorrhages, resulting in complications such as macular edema. Treatment involves intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and corticosteroid implants to prevent vision loss and retinal damage.
Retinal vascular occlusion is a serious eye condition that occurs when the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue responsible for a significant portion of vision, become blocked. Occlusions of the retinal vessels are divided into arterial and venous occlusions, each presenting with different symptoms. This article will delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatment processes of retinal vascular occlusions in detail.
The retinal vessels consist of arteries and veins. While arterial occlusions are rare, they can result in serious consequences, whereas venous occlusions are more commonly encountered. Arterial occlusions generally occur due to factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and aging. These factors can cause the hardening of blood vessel walls and the blockage of blood flow. Venous occlusions, on the other hand, impede the return of blood from the retina, leading to vessel dilation and retinal hemorrhages.
Arterial occlusions typically result in sudden and severe vision loss. Patients often notice vision loss in one of their eyes upon waking in the morning. This condition occurs when a clot detached from larger arteries blocks the vessels carrying blood to the retina. The blockage prevents sufficient blood from reaching the retina, rapidly causing vision loss. Arterial occlusions usually require urgent intervention; otherwise, permanent vision loss may occur.
Treatment for arterial occlusions is a medical emergency, and intervention within the first 24 hours is vital. Early treatment aims to push the clot in the blocked vessel towards smaller vessels to minimize damage. However, many patients delay seeking treatment due to delayed symptom recognition. This can lead to permanent damage in the retina. In such cases, your doctor will promptly devise a treatment plan.
Venous occlusions lead to vessel dilation and retinal hemorrhages. The inability of blood to return smoothly from the retina causes an increase in pressure in the vessels and blood accumulation. This condition can result in serious complications such as macular edema. One of the most commonly used methods for treating venous occlusion is intravitreal injections. These injections into the eye are used to reduce retinal edema and control damage. Additionally, laser therapy and corticosteroid implants are among the treatment options.
