Symptoms of Retinal Hemorrhage
Oct 11, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
In general, the clinical manifestations of vitreous hemorrhage vary depending on the volume and location of the hemorrhage. Common symptoms include: sudden, complete loss of vision—perceiving only hand movements or light perception; sudden onset of a circular, floating dark shadow in the visual field that does not move with eye movement; complete loss of central vision (i.e., inability to see objects directly ahead), while peripheral objects remain faintly visible; and sudden appearance of linear dark shadows within the visual field.
Retinal hemorrhage typically manifests as visible blood vessels (subconjunctival hemorrhage) in the scleral (white) portion of the eye. When such red streaks appear, vision often becomes blurry. Retinal hemorrhage may be directly linked to disorders of the brain’s nervous system—for instance, when cerebral blood vessels are significantly compressed, retinal hemorrhage can occur. It is a relatively common hematologic condition. So, what are the symptoms of retinal hemorrhage? Below, we address this question.
Symptoms of Retinal Hemorrhage
Generally, symptom presentation varies depending on the volume and location of retinal bleeding. Common manifestations include: sudden, complete loss of vision—perceiving only hand movements or light sensation; sudden appearance of a circular dark shadow obscuring vision, which floats independently of eye movement; complete loss of central vision (i.e., inability to see objects directly ahead), while peripheral objects remain faintly visible; sudden perception of linear black shadows shooting rapidly in one direction, progressively increasing in number until they completely obscure vision, resulting in severe blurring and inability to discern objects; sudden onset of flashing red light, gradually intensifying until the entire visual field appears red and vision becomes severely impaired; prodromal symptoms often include ocular pressure or twitching of the eyeball. Therefore, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are strongly recommended.
Knowledge Extension: Management of Retinal Hemorrhage
1. General Management
Patients are advised to rest in bed and avoid physical exertion and emotional stress. Blood pressure and blood glucose levels should be carefully controlled. If an underlying hematologic disorder is present, targeted treatment is essential. Pharmacotherapy may also be employed: carbazochrome is commonly used and, when combined with vitamin C, exerts synergistic hemostatic effects. Phenylsulfonylethylamine may be administered orally or via intramuscular injection, with dosage adjusted according to clinical severity.
2. Surgical Intervention
Surgical management of retinal hemorrhage can effectively control disease progression within a short timeframe. Postoperatively, adjunctive traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy is recommended for a sustained period. For mild cases, conservative TCM treatment alone is often preferred. TCM is a widely adopted therapeutic approach for retinal hemorrhage, effectively halting disease progression. Commonly prescribed TCM preparations include Xueshuantong, Xuesaitong, and Naoxuekang capsules.
The above outlines key symptoms and management strategies for retinal hemorrhage. We hope this information proves helpful.
