Retinal Artery or Vein Occlusion belongs to the category of retinal vascular disorders. Normally occuring in older patients with signs of systemic vascular disease i.e. hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and heart disease, it happens when one or more of the blood vessels in the eye becomes blocked, causing water to build up and the retina not being able to function appropriately, resulting in visual loss. The extent of visual loss is dependent on the number of blood vessels that become blocked.
Classication of retinal vascular disorders include -
Some known factors that increase risk include:
Symptoms include a sudden change in vision i.e. blurry vision, or a partial or complete loss of vision. If you exhibit the symptoms above, see your doctor immediately.
There is no medication currently available for retinal artery occlusions. Most people with this condition will have permanent changes to their vision.
Common treatment for retinal vein occlusion include:
The outlook depends on the severity of the condition. Many people will recover and regain most of their vision capabilities, but not all. It is possible that the vision will not return. Other eye conditions or complications will affect recovery.
Click here to access our Find A Doctor directory for a list of doctors treating this condition across our NUHS institutions.
