10 Little-Known Stroke Varieties and Their Hidden Dangers

9. Retinal Artery Occlusion (Eye Stroke): Vision's Sudden Darkness

Often dubbed an "eye stroke," retinal artery occlusion occurs when a blood clot or plaque blocks an artery supplying blood to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This leads to sudden, painless loss of vision, typically in one eye, often described as a curtain coming down or complete darkness. While not directly damaging the brain, it is a critical warning sign. A retinal artery occlusion often indicates underlying systemic cardiovascular disease, signaling a heightened risk for a full-blown brain stroke or heart attack. Immediate medical attention is essential to preserve vision and assess broader health risks.