Retinal vein occlusion is a blockage in the veins that carry blood away from the retina. Retina specialists are trained to diagnose and treat this condition, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for retinal vein occlusion.
Retinal vein occlusions can fall into three categories depending on which blood vessel they affect:
Retina surgeons further divide RVO into two categories based on severity:
Even young and otherwise healthy individuals can get an eye retinal vein occlusion. However, the following factors can raise the risk of retinal vein occlusions:
Symptoms of retinal vein occlusion appear gradually or suddenly depending on the location and severity of the blockage. These signs typically only affect one eye and may include:
In some cases, RVO doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, but regular eye exams can help catch this condition early. If you suspect you have RVO, consult an eye doctor near you immediately.
If your primary eye doctor discovers RVO in your eye, you will often be referred to a retinal specialist from Aiello Eye Institute. Our retina surgeons are MDs with specialized training in diagnosing, managing, and performing surgery on the retina.
Once you arrive at your our surgery center, your doctor can use several methods to diagnose RVO, including:
This newer assessment detects fluorescent pigments in the retina that may reveal damage or disease. For instance, spots of patchy white can indicate decreased blood flow caused by arterial compression.
These approaches are used to diagnose the type of RVO and assess the severity of the blockage. Additionally, your retina doctor may work with your primary care provider to investigate suspected causes of RVO. For example, they may order blood tests and monitor your blood pressure.
Your retina specialist can recommend various treatments based on the type, location, and severity of your RVO. Here are a few standard RVO procedures:
This innovative new treatment is injected into the eye to treat macular edema caused by BRVO and CRVO. Studies showed that Vabysmo® improves eyesight and reduces fluid in the eye.
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy: These medications reduce inflammation and fluid leakage in the eye caused by RVO. Your eye doctor may pair anti-VGEF injections with steroids to further reduce swelling.
Your retina specialist can use lasers to seal leaking veins and halt the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
Additionally, your retina specialist will work with your primary care provider to manage any underlying conditions contributing to the RVO. For instance, you may need to take medications like blood pressure medication or insulin to improve your overall well-being.
This innovative new treatment is injected into the eye to treat macular edema caused by BRVO and CRVO. Studies showed that Vabysmo® improves eyesight and reduces fluid in the eye.
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy: These medications reduce inflammation and fluid leakage in the eye caused by RVO. Your eye doctor may pair anti-VGEF injections with steroids to further reduce swelling.
Your retina specialist can use lasers to seal leaking veins and halt the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
Additionally, your retina specialist will work with your primary care provider to manage any underlying conditions contributing to the RVO. For instance, you may need to take medications like blood pressure medication or insulin to improve your overall well-being.
Retinal vein occlusion can happen to anyone and can’t be totally prevented. However, healthy habits like avoiding smoking and exercising can decrease your risk of developing diseases associated with RVO, such as diabetes and hypertension.
Additionally, regular eye exams can help detect RVO early before it causes irreversible vision loss. Some people experience no symptoms of this serious condition, so it’s crucial to get checked regularly.
