What are the causes and treatments for retinal hemorrhage in the elderly?

Generally speaking, eye hemorrhage in elderly individuals may be caused by trauma, age-related macular degeneration, retinal vasculitis, retinopathy, or uveitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Trauma

Eye hemorrhage in the elderly may result from ocular trauma. Patients can apply cold compresses locally within 48 hours to help reduce bleeding symptoms. After 48 hours, warm compresses may be used instead. If necessary, laser therapy may also be considered.

2. Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Unbalanced diet or excessive body weight may lead to age-related macular degeneration, where rupture of newly formed blood vessels causes retinal hemorrhage. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as vitamin A tablets, vitamin E soft capsules, and vitamin C tablets to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, submacular hemorrhage removal surgery may be recommended according to medical advice.

3. Retinal Vasculitis

When the immune system weakens in older adults, they become more susceptible to infections by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, which can damage the walls of retinal blood vessels and lead to eye hemorrhage. Patients may follow medical instructions to use medications like tobramycin eye drops, cefazolin sodium for injection, or dexamethasone sodium phosphate for injection. If there is localized blood accumulation, vitreoretinal surgery or laser photocoagulation may be recommended based on the doctor's assessment.

4. Retinopathy

With advancing age, the retina may gradually thin and even detach, leading to retinopathy, which could result in eye hemorrhage among elderly individuals. In such cases, patients may follow medical advice to take supportive treatments such as vitamin B1 and vitamin B12 supplements.

5. Uveitis

This condition may be triggered by unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking, or by infections with bacteria, parasites, or viruses. Patients may use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as pranoprofen eye drops, diclofenac sodium eye drops, or indomethacin eye drops as directed by a physician. In severe cases, vitrectomy may be recommended based on medical evaluation.

In daily life, it is important to maintain healthy habits and avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, as these may impair recovery.