Retinal artery occlusions eye care treatment

Small arteries inside the eye carry blood to the retina, a layer of nerve tissue that plays an important role in your ability to see. A retinal artery occlusion is a blockage of one or more of these arteries. As a result, you may experience sudden blurred vision or blindness in at least part of the eye. A retinal artery occlusion may go away after a short time, but in some cases it can be permanent.

Retinal artery occlusion is often a sign of hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), which can make it difficult for blood to flow normally. The arteries can also become blocked by blood clots, and an occlusion may indicate blood clots elsewhere in the body. If a clot lodges in the brain, it can cause a stroke. It’s important to see a doctor right away if your vision suddenly changes.

Services for retinal artery occlusion

If you experience sudden blurred vision or blindness in part of the eye, seek treatment immediately. Your doctor may prescribe a clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to break up the clot.

If your retinal artery occlusion is a complication of another condition – like artherosclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol – your doctor will create a plan of care to treat and manage the underlying issue. This can help prevent arteries from becoming blocked, and as a result help prevent retinal artery occlusions.

Why Aurora?

At Aurora Health Care, we strive to offer convenient, compassionate care.

• Our ophthalmologists are on call 24/7, so if you have an eye emergency, we’re there to help.
• We offer hundreds of specialists under one roof. If your doctor notices another health issue during your exam, like symptoms of diabetes, he or she can get you an appointment with another Aurora specialist right away.
• Our clinics, hospitals and surgery centers provide care for a whole spectrum of eye issues.
• Aurora Vision Centers provide comprehensive optometry and ophthalmology services for your entire family at locations near you.