Ocular blood flow

ocular blood flow

Ocular blood flow refers to the movement of blood through the eye’s network of tiny vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to critical structures like the retina and optic nerve. It keeps the light-sensing cells and nerve fibers healthy so they can convert light into the signals your brain uses to form images. The eye has specialized circulation and small vessels that must provide a steady supply even when overall blood pressure changes; built-in mechanisms try to keep flow stable. When those control systems fail, or when vessels are narrowed or damaged, the eye can suffer from reduced or uneven blood supply. Poor ocular blood flow is linked to several vision-threatening conditions because nerve and retinal cells are highly sensitive to lack of oxygen. Doctors and researchers use imaging tests to estimate flow and to identify where problems begin, which helps guide treatment. Factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, certain medications, and vascular health influence how well blood reaches the eye. Protecting and improving ocular blood flow is an important part of preventing vision loss and maintaining eye health as people age.