Retinal Occlusion
The Circulation
The eye has a high requirement for blood and oxygen, particularly in the retina. The blood provides nutrients to the cells and clears waste products.
As with any circulatory system, what goes in must come out. Blood is supplied by the retinal artery which is found in the middle of the optic nerve until it gets close to the eye and splits into two branches. Blood leaves by the central retinal vein that also splits into branches.
Occlusion
Occlusion refers to the blocking or obstruction of any of these blood vessels. The effects depend to some degree on where the occlusion occurs.
If the main artery or vein is occluded, then it is more serious than if a branch is obstructed. All can lead to some loss of sight and should be regarded as serious.
What causes it?
Arterial occlusion is caused in much the same way as elsewhere in the cardiovascular system. Inflammation causes plaque deposits, which slow or block the blood flow and can lead to an embolism (blood clot).
Vein occlusion may involve an embolism (blood clot), but can also occur where an artery crosses a vein and presses on it because the artery is inflamed and swollen.
Risk factors include:
- Age – most retinal vessel occlusions happen in people over 65
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Eating grains, cereals and other inflammatory foods
- What are the Effects?
Normally only one eye is affected, but if the underlying cause is not dealt with, there is a risk to the second eye.
There will always be some loss of sight, ranging from a progressive dimming to sudden total loss, depending on where the occlusion occurs.
The most serious effect occurs when the occlusion is in the artery, as this prevents nutrients getting to the retinal cells and the damage may be irreversible. If it is in the vein, then deterioration may be noticed over several days.
What Should I Do?
If you have a sudden loss of sight, go to A&E straight away. Time is important as the retina deteriorates quickly if the blood supply is restricted.
If you notice a progressive deterioration over a short time, then see an optometrist without delay.
If you have been diagnosed with occlusion, then some sight loss may be permanent, but some may return if the direct cause is removed, e.g. a clot or macular swelling.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
As will be appreciated, this is a serious issue and one that is best avoided.
I have written about it because it underlines the importance of looking after the health of your whole body. The eye is a particularly noticeable manifestation of cardiovascular health, whereas other issues may not be recognised.
Follow as much of the healthy living advice that you have been given through Robert’s newsletters and books – Free Eye Book here.
The following supplements are essential to take immediately:
BlockBuster AllClear – A full formula with 16 top class ingredients including Serrapeptase and Nattokinase for keeping your arteries clear of inflammation and clots.
ReFocus Vinpocetine for maintenance of the small blood vessels in the eye and brain.
Maxifocus – Super nutrients in a sublingual formula for rapid absorption.
Taurine – Helps to strengthen cell walls, clear detritus and support heart health.
HealthPoint™ – Electronic acupressure – use this regularly for stimulation of retinal health and much more.