Conditions We Treat
Retinal Vein Occlusion
A blockage in the retinal veins can cause sudden vision loss or distortion. Early treatment can help reduce swelling and preserve vision.
What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?
Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) occurs when one of the veins draining blood from the retina becomes blocked. This causes a backup of pressure, leading to retinal hemorrhages, fluid leakage, and swelling — most critically at the macula, resulting in blurred or distorted central vision.
Types
- Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO): The main retinal vein is blocked, affecting the entire retina.
- Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO): A smaller branch vein is blocked, affecting a portion of the retina.
Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Glaucoma
- Smoking
- Blood clotting disorders
Symptoms
Patients typically notice sudden painless blurring or loss of vision in one eye, sometimes with a dark or distorted area in central vision. Floaters may also appear if there has been bleeding into the vitreous.
Treatment
Macular edema from RVO is treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections or steroid implants. In select cases, retinal laser treatment is used. Treating underlying systemic conditions like hypertension is also an important part of management.
Next Steps
Sudden vision changes need prompt evaluation
If you have noticed sudden blurring or distortion in one eye, contact us for a timely retina evaluation.