Chinese man gets 'eye stroke' from overnight gaming, nearly loses vision

His delay in seeking treatment past the critical 90-minute window prevented a full recovery.

Xiao Yan, from Hangzhou City in Zhejiang Province, experienced sudden and severe blurred vision in his right eye after gaming until 2 or 3 a.m., according to a report from Hangzhou First People's Hospital as cited by HK01.

Believing the issue was simply eye strain from staring at the screen, Yan turned off his computer and went to bed. While his vision seemed marginally better after resting overnight, his sight became severely blurry again the following evening, finally prompting him to seek medical attention.

Doctors diagnosed him with a central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), a medical emergency where a blockage in the central retinal artery causes sudden, painless vision loss.

Despite intensive treatment, Yan's vision only partially recovered.

Hospital representatives noted on Nov. 22 that the patient had a history of obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and high cholesterol--factors that significantly increase the risk of vascular issues, as reported by EpochTimes.

Doctors explained that the "golden window" for treating CRAO is within 90 minutes of onset. Because Yan waited over 24 hours, he missed the chance for full vision restoration, as prolonged retinal ischemia (lack of blood flow) causes permanent damage.

Understanding the 'eye stroke'

Yao Xiaolei, head of the ophthalmology department, clarified that an "eye stroke" is a form of vascular embolism caused by a blockage in the central retinal artery or vein, according to HK01.

The retina requires a constant blood and oxygen supply. Blockage immediately leads to oxygen deprivation and sudden vision loss.

There are two main types of eye stroke.

Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) is the most acute and severe form. Symptoms are typically sudden and painless vision decline, often described as a visual field darkening, as if a black curtain has fallen over the eye.

Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) is more common and involves a slower onset of sudden vision loss, often accompanied by distorted vision (bent lines) or a dim, foggy visual field, making colors appear dull.

Experts warn that both types are dangerous because their painless onset leads patients to confuse them with routine eye strain, delaying crucial care. Retinal damage is typically permanent if oxygen deprivation lasts longer than 90 minutes.

Cases of eye stroke tend to rise in winter. Colder temperatures can constrict blood vessels, and blood pressure fluctuations may dislodge plaques, forming clots. Other risk factors include dehydration, which thickens the blood.

Doctors caution that eye stroke is no longer limited to older adults and is increasingly affecting younger individuals. Those with the "three highs" (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol), arteriosclerosis, or long-term smokers should be especially vigilant and undergo regular health checkups.