An eye stroke is caused by the sudden blockage of blood flow to the retina or optic nerve, leading to a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
In general, a “stroke” is when blood flow is interrupted to a part of the body causing a lack of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. An “eye stroke” is when blood flow is interrupted to portions of the eye and encompasses various diagnoses such as retinal artery occlusion, retinal vein occlusion, and ischemic optic neuropathy. These conditions are not only vision-threatening but in some cases life-threatening. If you experience a sudden loss of vision in either eye, seek an immediate dilated exam with an ophthalmologist.