Retinal artery occlusion

The retina is the part of your eye that senses light so you can see. Retinal artery occlusion is a blood clot in an artery in the retina.

When an artery in the retina is blocked, doctors say it is "occluded." This blockage stops blood from flowing through the artery. And that can damage nerve cells that help you see. Or the artery may leak, causing swelling.

There is no pain. But most people suddenly lose all or most vision in that eye. It may last only seconds or minutes. But the vision loss can also be permanent.

Treatment may include medicine, procedures, injections, or laser treatment. But these treatments don't always work.

Symptoms can be similar to other diseases that do need treatment. That's why it's important to act fast and call your doctor.

You will probably have tests to look for the cause and help prevent another blood clot in your eye or elsewhere in your body.