Vascular eye disease refers to conditions that arise when there is a blockage or leakage of fluid within retinal vessels, which are responsible for supplying the retina with essential nutrients and oxygen. At Red Cliffs Eye Center, we offer comprehensive assessment and treatment for vascular eye disease in St. George and Garfield County, Utah, and Ely and Lincoln City, Nevada.
Causes of Vascular Eye Disease
- Diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy: Uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure can lead to damage in the blood vessels of the retina.
- Retinal vein and artery occlusion: Blockage in the retinal veins or arteries can disrupt blood flow to the retina.
- Cholesterol and high blook pressure: Both conditions can contribute to vascular eye disease.
- Age: Advancing age is a risk factor for vascular eye diseases.
- Lifestyle factors: Being overweight, smoking and using tobacco products increase the risk of developing vascular eye disease.
- Giant cell arteritis: This condition involves inflammation of the arteries and can affect blood flow to the eyes.
- Heart problems and blood disorders: Certain cardiac conditions and blood disorders can impact the vascular system, including the blood vessels in the eyes.
- Blood clots and arterial blockage: Blockages or clots in the arteries can impede blood flow to the eyes.
Symptoms and Assessment
While vascular eye diseases are often painless, they can cause symptoms such as headaches and a general feeling of being unwell, particularly in cases of hypertension. More severe conditions like temporal or giant cell arteritis may present with extended periods of headaches, jaw pain and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek prompt assessment from our eye physician.
Schedule an Appointment
To address your vascular eye disease concerns and start on the path to improved eye health, please contact us at 435-634-0420 to schedule an appointment with our optometrist, Dr. Reed Gibb. We look forward to meeting with you!