Episode 079: Eye on Eye Stroke: New Treatment for Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

Can an eye stroke be treated? What causes sudden vision loss in one eye? And what should you do if it happens?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews retina specialist Dr. Gareth Lema about central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), commonly known as an eye stroke.Dr. Lema explains the difference between retinal artery occlusions and retinal vein occlusions, why sudden painless vision loss is always a medical emergency, and how new hospital protocols are changing the way certain patients are treated.Together, they discuss:• What causes an eye stroke• The warning signs that require immediate medical attention• Why every minute matters after sudden vision loss• A breakthrough treatment using clot-dissolving medication (TPA) for selected patients• How OCT imaging is helping doctors diagnose eye strokes faster• The link between eye stroke, carotid artery disease, heart disease, and brain stroke• The cardiovascular workup every patient should receive• Lifestyle habits that support healthy blood vessels and may reduce future stroke risk, including nutrition, exercise, blood pressure control, and proper hydrationIf you or someone you love experiences sudden painless vision loss, this episode could help you recognize an emergency and seek care quickly.Gareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.About My GuestGareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.https://profiles.mountsinai.org/gareth-lemahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/garethlema/https://www.facebook.com/GLRetina/https://www.instagram.com/garethlemamdphd/Connect with Rani Banik, MD🌐 Website: https://www.drranibanik.comShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrRaniBanikInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanikFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC