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Retinal Vein Occlusion

Retinal Vein Occlusion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Your eyes are often described as the windows to your soul, but they’re also windows to your health. Sometimes, changes in your blood vessels can affect your vision. One such condition is Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). It is a blockage of the veins that carry blood away from the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye.

When this vein gets blocked, blood and fluid can leak into the retina, leading to swelling, bleeding, and sometimes sudden vision loss. While it’s not as commonly discussed as glaucoma or cataracts, retinal vein occlusion is a serious eye condition that requires prompt medical care to prevent permanent damage.

Let’s take a closer look at what causes retinal vein occlusion, its symptoms, and how it’s treated.

What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) is a blood flow problem essentially in the eye. It occurs when one of the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked, often due to a blood clot or hardening of the vein.

Think of it like a blocked drain. When blood can’t flow properly, it backs up, causing the vessels to leak fluid and blood into the retina. This leads to swelling and impaired vision.

RVO is more common in older adults, particularly those over 50, yet it can occur at any age if certain risk factors are present. It is the second most common retinal vascular disorder after diabetic retinopathy, affecting millions globally each year.

Causes of Retinal Vein Occlusion

Several underlying health conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing RVO. The most common causes of retinal vein occlusion include:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension): Chronic high pressure damages blood vessel walls, increasing the chance of blockage.
  • Diabetes: High sugar levels can damage blood vessels, making them more prone to clotting.
  • High cholesterol: Fat deposits in blood vessels can restrict blood flow, raising the risk of vein occlusion.
  • Glaucoma: Elevated eye pressure can compress the retinal veins, making blockages more likely.
  • Blood disorders: Conditions that increase blood thickness (hyperviscosity) can contribute to the formation of blood clots.
  • Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessel linings and accelerates vascular issues.
  • Age: As we age, blood vessels naturally harden, making older adults more susceptible to this condition.

In some cases, RVO may also be associated with inflammatory conditions or certain medications that affect clotting. Managing these underlying health issues plays a crucial role in preventing and maintaining long-term eye health.

Types of Retinal Vein Occlusion

RVO is classified into two main types depending on which part of the retinal vein system is affected.

  • Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO):
    This occurs when the main vein draining blood from the entire retina is blocked. It typically causes sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye. The whole retina may be affected, leading to more severe swelling (macular oedema).
  • Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO):
    This happens when one of the smaller branches of the central vein is blocked. Vision loss is usually partial and affects only the area supplied by that branch. This is the more common form of RVO.

Understanding the type of occlusion helps ophthalmologists decide on the most suitable retinal vein occlusion treatment for each patient.

Symptoms of Retinal Vein Occlusion

The symptoms of retinal vein occlusion can vary depending on severity and location, but often include:

  • Sudden blurred or distorted vision in one eye
  • Partial or complete vision loss
  • Dark or empty spots in your field of vision
  • Floaters that appear as dark shapes drifting across your sight
  • Eye pain or pressure (less common, but may occur if there’s associated glaucoma or swelling)

In many cases, RVO doesn’t cause pain, which is why it can be overlooked initially. If you notice any sudden vision changes, especially blurring or partial loss in one eye, you should see an eye specialist immediately.

Diagnosis of Retinal Vein Occlusion

When you visit an ophthalmologist, they perform a series of tests to confirm RVO and assess the extent of damage.

Common diagnostic procedures include:

  • Dilated eye examination: To look for retinal bleeding or swelling.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging test that shows detailed cross-sections of the retina and detects fluid buildup.
  • Fluorescein angiography: Involves injecting a harmless dye into your bloodstream to highlight blocked or leaking blood vessels.
  • Blood tests: To identify underlying conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or clotting disorders.

Early detection through these tests is key to preserving vision.

Treatment Options for Retinal Vein Occlusion

There’s no direct cure for RVO, but treatment focuses on controlling swelling, improving vision, and preventing further complications.

Here are the most common retinal vein occlusion treatments:

  • Anti-VEGF Injections:
    Medications such as ranibizumab, aflibercept, or bevacizumab are injected into the eye to reduce swelling and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth. These are typically given monthly at first and then spaced out depending on response.
  • Steroid Injections or Implants:
    Corticosteroids help control inflammation and swelling in the retina. They may be used if anti-VEGF injections are not sufficient or suitable for the individual.
  • Laser Therapy:
    Laser photocoagulation seals leaking vessels and reduces macular oedema (swelling in the central retina). It also helps prevent the formation of new, abnormal vessels.
  • Treating Underlying Conditions:
    Managing high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes is critical to avoid recurrence or worsening of the condition.
  • Surgery (in severe cases):
    Procedures such as vitrectomy (removal of the vitreous gel) may be performed in cases of persistent bleeding or scar tissue formation.

With proper treatment and follow-up, many patients recover part of their lost vision and prevent further deterioration.

Prevention Tips

Prevention focuses on maintaining good vascular and eye health. To lower your risk of retinal vein occlusion:

  • Maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
  • Eat a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Exercise regularly to improve circulation.
  • Get regular eye check-ups, especially if you have chronic health conditions.

Taking care of your overall health goes a long way in protecting your vision.

How We Treat Retinal Vein Occlusion at Maxivision Eye Hospitals

At Maxivision Eye Hospitals, we understand how sudden vision loss can be a frightening experience. That’s why we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to retinal vein occlusion treatment.

When you visit us, we begin with a thorough retinal evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools, including OCT and fluorescein angiography. Once we identify the type and severity of occlusion, we customise your treatment plan.

We use the latest anti-VEGF and laser therapies to control swelling, restore clarity, and prevent complications. Our retina specialists also work closely with your physician to manage systemic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, ensuring complete care.

We focus not just on treatment but also on education. We help you understand your condition, guide you through preventive steps, and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. Our goal is to preserve your vision and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

Retinal Vein Occlusion is a serious yet manageable condition if detected early. Recognising symptoms like sudden blurred vision or partial vision loss and seeking prompt evaluation can make a huge difference in outcomes.

With advances in retinal vein occlusion treatment, including safe and effective injection therapies, many patients today regain much of their lost sight.

At Maxivision Eye Hospitals, we are dedicated to helping patients protect and restore their vision through advanced retinal care. Our team of expert ophthalmologists, modern facilities, and personalised approach ensure that every patient receives the best possible care for their eyes.

If you notice sudden vision changes or suspect retinal vein occlusion, don’t delay. Contact us for expert diagnosis and care. Early attention could save your sight.

FAQs

Retinal Vein Occlusion is a blockage of the small veins that carry blood away from the retina. When one of these veins becomes blocked, blood and fluid can leak into the retina, leading to swelling, blurred vision, or even sudden vision loss.

The most common causes are conditions that affect blood flow, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and glaucoma. These can damage blood vessel walls and increase the risk of clot formation in the retinal veins.

Symptoms often appear suddenly and may include blurred or distorted vision, dark spots, or a partial loss of vision in one or both eyes. Some patients notice that straight lines look bent or that objects appear faded on one side.

If untreated, RVO can lead to long-term complications such as macular oedema or retinal neovascularisation, which may cause permanent vision damage. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve visual outcomes.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition. Common options include anti-VEGF injections to reduce retinal swelling, corticosteroid injections or implants, and laser therapy to prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Managing underlying conditions like hypertension or diabetes is equally essential.

While it cannot always be prevented, maintaining good control of blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels lowers your risk. Regular eye check-ups are essential for people with vascular diseases or a family history of RVO.

At Maxivision, we combine advanced retinal imaging, including OCT and fluorescein angiography, with customised treatment plans. Our retina specialists use the latest anti-VEGF therapies and laser technologies to manage swelling and restore vision. We also guide patients on systemic health management to prevent recurrence.