An eye stroke, medically known as a retinal artery occlusion (RAO), occurs when the blood flow to the retina is blocked. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. This blockage prevents the retina from receiving the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly.
Understanding Retinal Artery Occlusion
The term "occlusion" means blockage. In the case of an eye stroke, this blockage usually happens due to a blood clot. The severity of an eye stroke depends on where the blockage occurs:
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO): This is the most severe form of an eye stroke. In CRAO, the main artery supplying blood to the retina is blocked. This often leads to sudden and complete vision loss in the affected eye.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Term | Retinal Artery Occlusion (RAO) |
| Cause | Blockage of an artery supplying blood to the retina, usually by a clot. |
| Severity | Varies depending on the location of the blockage. CRAO (main artery blockage) is the most severe. |
| Outcome | Can result in partial or complete vision loss. CRAO typically causes complete blindness in the affected eye. |
An eye stroke is a serious medical condition requiring immediate attention. If you experience sudden vision loss, it is crucial to seek medical help right away. Prompt treatment may help minimize vision damage.
