Retinal Artery Occlusion (RAO): A Critical Eye Emergency
A Retinal Artery Occlusion (RAO) is a true medical emergency, often referred to as an “eye stroke.” This condition occurs when blood flow is blocked in the arteries that supply oxygen and nutrients to the retina. The retina is light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, and without oxygen, it can be permanently damaged, leading to severe and sudden vision loss.
At Nevada Retina Center in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Wu and Dr. Ward are experts in diagnosing and managing these critical, time-sensitive cases. Our practice is equipped to provide the rapid assessment required when sight is on the line.
Types of Retinal Artery Occlusion
There are two main types of RAO, determined by the location of the blockage:
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO): A blockage in the main artery supplying the retina. This typically results in sudden, severe, and usually painless vision loss across the entire field of vision in one eye. This is the most serious form.
- Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO): A blockage in one of the smaller arteries. This typically causes partial vision loss, often manifesting as a shadow or blurred area in the field of vision.
The Critical Time Factor for Vision
If you experience sudden, painless vision loss in one eye, you must seek medical attention immediately. Time is sight. Restoring blood flow to the retina within the first few hours is crucial for maximizing the chance of salvaging vision.
Furthermore, an RAO is frequently a sign of an underlying systemic vascular problem, such as heart disease or carotid artery disease. This means the condition requires not only urgent eye care but also coordinated management with a primary care physician, cardiologist, or stroke specialist.
Our Emergency Treatment Approach
Dr. Wu and Dr. Ward provide rapid assessment and time-sensitive treatment protocols for patients presenting with sudden vision loss:
- Immediate Assessment: A rapid evaluation using advanced diagnostics to confirm the RAO and determine the extent of the damage.
- Pressure Reduction: Procedures like Anterior Chamber Paracentesis (relieving internal eye pressure) may be performed to encourage movement of the blockage and restore blood flow.
- Ocular Massage: Specific techniques may be used to try and dislodge the embolus (clot).
- Coordinated Referrals: We immediately coordinate with relevant specialists to address the cardiovascular or neurological causes of the occlusion, preventing future strokes or heart events.
🚨 If You Experience Sudden Vision Loss:
If you or a loved one experiences sudden, painless vision loss in one eye, this is an emergency. Immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Room and notify your retinal specialist, Dr. Wu or Dr. Ward, as soon as possible.
Why Choose Dr. Wu and Dr. Ward for Retinal Emergencies?
In Las Vegas, when dealing with an eye stroke, experience matters most.
- Specialized Expertise: Our doctors are focused on the retina, providing specialized knowledge in these rare and time-sensitive vascular events.
- Advanced Diagnostics: We use sophisticated imaging to rapidly confirm the RAO and plan the optimal course of action.
- Collaborative Care: We work closely with the Las Vegas medical community, including stroke teams and cardiologists, to manage both the eye condition and the underlying systemic risk.
For expert, immediate care for a retinal emergency in Las Vegas, trust the specialized team at Nevada Retina Center.