What is CRAO and What is its Treatment?
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) is a medical emergency that occurs when the central retinal artery, responsible for supplying blood to the retina, becomes blocked. This blockage prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the retina, leading to sudden and severe vision loss in one eye.
What Causes CRAO?
CRAO typically results from blockages caused by:
- Blood Clots or Emboli: Small clots or cholesterol deposits that travel to the central retinal artery.
- Atherosclerosis (Hardening of Arteries): Narrowed or blocked arteries due to cholesterol buildup.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease increase the risk of CRAO.
- Carotid Artery Disease: Plaque or clots from the carotid artery in the neck may block the retinal artery.
Other rare causes include inflammatory disorders like giant cell arteritis or hypercoagulable (clotting) conditions.
Symptoms of CRAO
The symptoms of CRAO are sudden and alarming. The most common sign is painless and severe vision loss in one eye. Other symptoms may include:
- Partial or complete blindness in the affected eye.
- A dramatic reduction in visual field (peripheral vision).
- A “curtain-like” shadow over the vision.
How is CRAO Diagnosed?
At LJ Eye Institute Ambala, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools are used to confirm CRAO, including:
- Fundoscopy: A detailed examination of the retina using a specialized lens to identify blockages.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): High-resolution imaging of the retina to detect swelling or damage.
- Fluorescein Angiography: A dye-based test to assess blood flow in the retinal vessels.
- Ultrasound and Carotid Imaging: To identify the source of the blockage, such as carotid artery disease.
Treatment Options for CRAO at LJEI Ambala
At LJ Eye Institute Ambala, the treatment for CRAO focuses on restoring blood flow to the retina as quickly as possible. Key treatment approaches include:
1. Ocular Massage
This technique involves applying gentle pressure to the eye to help dislodge the clot and restore blood flow. It’s most effective when performed within the first few hours after symptom onset.
2. Medications
- Intraocular Pressure-Lowering Drugs: Medications like acetazolamide or eye drops can reduce pressure in the eye, increasing blood flow.
- Anticoagulants or Clot-Dissolving Agents: Blood thinners may be used to prevent further clot formation.
3. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment to improve oxygen delivery to the retina and surrounding tissues.
4. Retinal Laser Treatment
In cases where CRAO leads to complications like neovascularization (abnormal blood vessel growth), laser therapy may be employed to prevent further damage.
5. Addressing Underlying Causes
Doctors at LJEI also focus on treating the root causes of CRAO, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, or carotid artery disease, to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Why Choose LJ Eye Institute Ambala for CRAO Treatment?
- Expert Retinal Specialists: LJEI is home to highly experienced retinal surgeons and ophthalmologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating complex retinal conditions like CRAO.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: The institute uses cutting-edge technology like OCT and fluorescein angiography for accurate and quick diagnosis.
- Comprehensive Care: From emergency care to long-term management, LJEI offers a patient-centered approach to ensure the best possible outcomes.
- Proven Track Record: As one of the leading eye care centers in Ambala, LJEI is trusted for delivering exceptional results in retinal care.