Retinal Vein Occlusion

Understanding Retinal Vein Occlusion

What is Retinal Vein Occlusion? Retinal vein occlusion is like a traffic jam in the blood vessels of your eye. When a vein in the retina gets blocked, it can lead to vision problems.

Types of RVO

• Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): Occurs in a smaller branch of the main vein.
• Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): Happens in the main vein of the retina.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Sudden Visual Changes: Blurred vision or vision loss, typically in one eye.
• Floaters: Small, dark shapes or spots that float in your vision.
• Pain or Pressure: Though not common, some may feel discomfort in the affected eye.

What Causes RVO? It’s often linked to other health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma, or blood disorders. Age is also a factor, with RVO more common in those over 60.

Treatment Options

• Medication Injections: To reduce swelling in the retina and improve vision.
• Laser Treatment: For some types of RVO, to reduce swelling and prevent further vision loss.
• Lifestyle Changes: Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can help.

Prevention and Monitoring

• Regular eye exams, especially if you have health conditions linked to RVO.
• Immediate medical attention if you experience sudden changes in your vision.

Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing RVO and preserving your vision. If you notice any of these symptoms or have risk factors for RVO, please contact our office for an evaluation.