Carotid Artery Disease

Changes in your vision can sometimes indicate more than just an eye condition; they may be an early warning sign of reduced blood flow to your brain. Board-certified ophthalmologist and surgeon Stanley Rosenberg, MD, and Peter Gomez, OD, at Rosenberg Eye Center Inc., evaluate eye symptoms that may be associated with carotid artery disease for patients in Miami, Tavernier, and Key West, Florida. Through thorough eye examinations and personalized care, the team helps identify concerning findings and coordinates appropriate follow-up when needed. Call Rosenberg Eye Center Inc or schedule an appointment online today.

What is carotid artery disease, and how does it affect your eyes?

Carotid artery disease develops when the carotid arteries in your neck become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your brain, and they also help provide blood flow to your eyes. When circulation is restricted, your eyes may show some of the earliest signs of the problem.

Reduced blood flow can increase your risk of serious complications, including stroke and vision loss. Risk factors for carotid artery disease include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Aging
• A family history of cardiovascular disease

An eye examination may reveal changes in the blood vessels or retina that suggest reduced circulation. Your provider evaluates your eye health and looks for findings that could indicate an underlying vascular condition. 

How can carotid artery disease affect your eyes?

Carotid artery disease doesn't always produce noticeable symptoms, but when your eyes are affected, vision changes may occur suddenly or intermittently. These symptoms should never be ignored because they can signal an increased risk of stroke.

You may experience:

• Sudden vision loss in one eye
• Temporary episodes of blurred vision
• A shadow over your vision
• Double vision
• Reduced peripheral vision
• Episodes of temporary blindness that resolve within minutes

During your eye exam, your doctor examines your retina and blood vessels for signs of reduced blood flow. Advanced imaging may also help evaluate the health of your retina and optic nerve. Detecting these changes early allows you to seek prompt medical care before more serious complications develop.

How is carotid artery disease treated?

An eye exam cannot diagnose carotid artery disease on its own, but it can identify findings that warrant further medical evaluation. If your provider suspects reduced blood flow, they may recommend additional testing, such as a carotid ultrasound or vascular imaging.

Treatment depends on the severity of the blockage and may include:

• Medications to lower cholesterol or blood pressure
• Blood-thinning medications
• Lifestyle changes
• Diabetes care

Cardiovascular health and eye health are closely connected. The knowledgeable team evaluates your eye findings in the context of your overall health, enabling timely referrals and coordinated care when necessary.

If you've experienced sudden vision changes or have risk factors for vascular disease, a comprehensive eye examination may provide important clues about your overall health. Call Rosenberg Eye Center Inc or schedule an appointment online today.