[Click! Health] Rapid Increase in 'Mangmak Hyeolgwan Pyehsoojeung'... Eye Blood Vessels Need Care Too

Retinal Blood Vessel Rupture Blocks Blood Flow to Eye
24% Increase in Last 5 Years
Importance of Vascular Care and Lifestyle Habits

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] The number of patients with retinal vascular occlusion, a condition where the retinal blood vessels in the eye become blocked, has been steadily increasing. Retinal vascular occlusion can occur without warning, and central retinal artery occlusion is classified as an emergency condition, making preventive efforts essential.

Retinal vascular occlusion is a disease in which blood vessels in the retina become blocked or burst, preventing blood from reaching the eye. As vascular function declines with age, it is commonly found in middle-aged and older adults, and the risk increases if vascular health is poor. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of outpatients treated for retinal vascular occlusion rose from 60,311 in 2017 to 75,000 last year, an increase of about 24% over five years.

Retinal vascular occlusion is classified based on the location and type of affected blood vessel. Treatment varies depending on whether the affected vessel is a central vessel in the retina, a peripheral vessel, an artery carrying blood from the heart to the retina, or a vein carrying blood from the retina to the heart. The most dangerous type is central retinal artery occlusion, where the central artery within the retina is blocked. It is an emergency ophthalmic condition that can lead to blindness if not treated within two hours of onset.

Because there may be no initial symptoms depending on the degree of occlusion, it is considered a frightening disease. Symptoms such as blurred or narrowed vision and floaters may occur, but it can also present as sudden severe vision loss without any warning signs or pain. Additionally, once the retina is blocked or damaged, it is difficult to fully restore its previous function. Prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment are crucial.

The exact cause of retinal vascular occlusion has not been clearly identified. However, metabolic syndromes that impair blood circulation, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and heart disease, are considered risk factors. To prevent it, it is necessary to develop healthy lifestyle habits that strengthen blood vessels. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol through balanced nutrition, abstaining from alcohol and smoking, and regular exercise is important. Also, since blood clots can easily form when standing or sitting for long periods, it is advisable to move around periodically. For early detection and timely treatment, it is recommended to have regular ophthalmic check-ups once or twice a year.

Kim Cheol-gu, a specialist at Kim Eye Hospital’s Retina Center, emphasized, "The importance of vascular management cannot be overstated, but many people do not realize that eye vascular care is necessary. Since retinal vascular occlusion often occurs without warning, paying attention to overall vascular health and undergoing regular eye examinations is the best preventive measure."