Why do eye strokes happen? What are the symptoms of an eye stroke? How can we differentiate between temporary vision loss and an eye stroke? At what age do people get affected by this problem more? How can we be cautious? Expert ophthalmologist Dr. Sudipta Das provides advice.
Dr. Sudipta Das has highlighted that the primary cause of ocular stroke is high blood pressure. The second cause is diabetes, and the third cause is high cholesterol. These three factors are the main contributors to ocular stroke. Additionally, there are other factors, such as uncontrolled mental stress and strain. Uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can all escalate the risk factors. While cholesterol might not receive much attention, in this context, it can lead to significant damage.
There are two types of eye strokes. The eye comprises crucial blood vessels, including a main artery and its four branches. If any branch encounters an issue, the patient might experience problems with their visual acuity. Complete blockage can temporarily affect vision, causing temporary visual disturbances such as partial loss of vision, headache, eye pain, and redness.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) involves temporary vision loss that lasts only for a few minutes. Occasionally, it can recur. At times, disturbances in blood flow can lead to discomfort. The symptoms of eye stroke differ slightly from those of TIA. In the former, the problem is usually persistent. Treatment for an eye stroke is simpler when it affects a small area of the eye. In most cases, treatment options were limited in the past when these issues occurred. Stroke leads to blockage, followed by chemical reactions in the retina. Fluid leaks from blood vessels, blocking chemical transmitters. Otherwise, fluid accumulates, impairing vision. Prompt treatment is crucial for eye strokes. The sooner treatment begins, the faster the risk diminishes.