LIFESTYLE NEWS - A retinal vein occlusion is sometimes referred to as an 'eye stroke'. It's the blockage of one of the veins returning blood from your retina back to your heart. Your retina converts light and images into nerve signals and sends them to your brain via the optic nerve. Blockages impair your retina's ability to filter light and your ability to see.
The primary symptom of retinal vein occlusion is a blurring or loss of vision that's usually sudden in onset and generally in only one eye. If it isn't treated, the blurring or loss of vision usually gets worse in hours or days. Sometimes, you'll see dark spots or floaters. In severe cases, a blocked vein will build up pressure and cause pain in your eye.
Retinal vein occlusions usually occur because your arteries harden and cause a clot, much like a stroke. Blockages are more common in people with narrowed or damaged blood vessels, or those with chronic conditions that cause them.
- Atherosclerosis, which is a hardening of the arteries
- Glaucoma, increased ocular pressure
- Macular oedema, which is fluid leakage into the macula, or the area of the retina that allows for sharp focus
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Blood disorders that affect clotting
- Being over the age of 60
- Smoking
Blockages in your retinal veins can't be removed.
Treatment focuses on issues arising from the occlusion, such as:
- Laser therapy to reduce edema, or swelling caused by fluid leakage
- Drug injections of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- A vitrectomy, which is the removal of all or part of the jelly-like tissue in your eye called the 'vitreous humor'
It's important to see your doctor right away if you have these symptoms.
Any questions can be forwarded to questions@walkindoctor.co.za
