Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO, CRVO)
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What it is: A retinal vein occlusion occurs when one of the veins that drains blood from the retina becomes blocked. This causes blood and fluid to leak into the retinal tissue, which can lead to swelling and blurred vision.
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Who it affects: This condition can occur at any age but is more common in people with vascular risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, or high cholesterol.
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Types:
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Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO): Blockage of the main vein can lead to more severe vision loss and complications
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Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO): Blockage of a smaller tributary can have milder symptoms or no symptoms
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Symptoms:
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Sudden or painless blurring of vision in one eye
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Vision distortion or decreased vision
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Possible dark spots or floaters in vision
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Vision may worsen over days to weeks after the blockage
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Treatments:
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Anti-VEGF injections to decrease swelling and stabilize vision
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Steroid injections in select cases to reduce inflammation
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Laser therapy in some situations
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Close monitoring for complications like neovascular glaucoma
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Warning signs: If you experience sudden vision changes, blurred vision, new floaters, or a sudden dark spot, please contact us promptly.
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your long-term visual outcome. Contact us today for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What causes a retinal vein occlusion?
A retinal vein occlusion is caused by a blockage in one of the veins that drains blood from the retina. This blockage is usually related to blood vessel changes from conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or glaucoma. The blockage prevents normal blood flow, leading to bleeding and fluid buildup in the retina.
Q: Is retinal vein occlusion a type of stroke in the eye?
Yes, retinal vein occlusion is often described as a “stroke of the eye,” although it should not be confused with a retinal artery occlusion, which is sometimes also referred to as a "stroke in the eye" in non-medical terms. Like a stroke elsewhere in the body, it involves a sudden interruption of blood flow. Because it can be associated with underlying vascular conditions, a diagnosis of retinal vein occlusion may prompt evaluation of overall cardiovascular health.
Q: Can vision improve after a retinal vein occlusion?
In many cases, vision can improve with appropriate treatment, especially if retinal swelling (macular edema) is controlled early. Some patients recover partial or even significant vision, while others may have lasting visual changes. Early diagnosis and consistent follow-up are important for the best possible outcome.
Q: How often are injections needed for retinal vein occlusion?
Injection frequency varies from person to person. Many patients require monthly treatments initially, followed by gradual spacing as the condition stabilizes. Your retina specialist will tailor the schedule based on how your eye responds to therapy.
Q: Is retinal vein occlusion permanent?
The blockage itself does not usually go away, but the effects on vision can often be managed. With treatment, complications such as swelling and abnormal blood vessel growth can be controlled. Some patients experience long-term vision changes, while others maintain functional vision with ongoing care.
Q: Can retinal vein occlusion happen in both eyes?
It usually affects only one eye, but having a retinal vein occlusion in one eye slightly increases the risk of developing a similar problem in the other eye. Managing systemic risk factors such as blood pressure and diabetes is important for prevention.
Q: What complications can occur if retinal vein occlusion is not treated?
Without treatment, complications may include chronic macular edema, severe vision loss, abnormal blood vessel growth, and elevated eye pressure (neovascular glaucoma). Regular monitoring helps identify and address these issues early.
Q: When should I see a retina specialist for retinal vein occlusion?
You should seek prompt evaluation if you experience sudden blurred vision, distortion, dark spots, or vision loss in one eye. Early assessment by a retina specialist allows for timely treatment and helps protect long-term vision.
