Other symptoms may include head aches, pain at the temple.
Causes
Retinal hemorrhages commonly occur in high altitude climbers, most likely due to the effects of systemic hypoxia on the eye. Risk is correlated with the maximum altitude reached, duration of exposure to high altitude conditions, and climb rate. Retinal hemorrhages are significantly associated with abusive head traumas. The mechanism of the trauma is believed to be repeated acceleration and deceleration with or without blunt impact. Around 85% of victims suffer from AHT will have retinal hemorrhages and it increases in severity with increasing likelihood of abuse. However, claims regarding Shaken Baby Syndrome are not universally agreed upon and have conflicting scientific evidence.
Diagnosis
A retinal hemorrhage is generally diagnosed by using an ophthalmoscope or fundus camera in order to examine the inside of the eye. A fluorescein angiography test may be conducted, in which a fluorescent dye is often injected into the patient's bloodstream beforehand so the administering ophthalmologist can have a more detailed view and examination on the blood vessels in the retina. The fluorescent dye can have dangerous side effects: see Fluorescein Eye examination may be done to check the eye conditions, for instance to check how well the patient sees straight ahead, off to the sides and at different distances. Blood tests may provide information about the patient's overall health and may also reveal the medical condition that may have caused retinal hemorrhage.
Prevention
It is recommended to consult with ophthalmologist or optometrist as early as possible, particularly for people with vision problems, these includes floaters, flashes, cobwebs or spots in their vision. Preventive measures such as regular prenatal care and monitoring of infants with high risks of the disorder may be done to avoid further complications of retinal hemorrhages in infants. For retinal hemorrhages associated with hypertension, blood pressure can be controlled by having regular blood pressure check ups, frequent exercise, monitor daily food intakes and to practice a stress-free lifestyle.
Treatment
Retinal hemorrhages, especially mild ones not associated with chronic disease, will normally reabsorb without treatment. Laser surgery is a treatment option which uses a laser beam to seal off damaged blood vessels in the retina. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs like Avastin and Lucentis have also been shown to repair retinal hemorrhaging in diabetic patients and patients with hemorrhages associated with new vessel growth. Alternative treatments may include providing necessary nutrients to strengthen and heal damaged blood vessels, through the consumption of dietary supplements such as Vitamins A, B, C and E. Also, the essential fatty acids including omega-3 from fish oil and flaxseed oil.
