While there is no cure for a retinal vein occlusion, several treatments can help manage complications related to a retinal vein occlusion.

Eye injections

• Swelling of the macula (macular edema) is the most common cause of vision loss in patients with retinal vein occlusion.
• Eye injections are used to treat the swelling in the macula.
• The primary eye injection medication used is an antibody to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
  • Anti-VEGF eye injections block a protein that promotes abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage. It can improve swelling and bleeding in the eye, and in many patients stabilize and improve vision.
  • There are several FDA approved medications that work by blocking this molecule (VEGF) in the eye.
• Another option for treating the swelling in the center vision is a steroid eye injection. The steroid eye injections are typically considered second line as they have a risk of causing cataract progression and glaucoma.

Laser treatment

• Retina laser is used sometimes in patients with advanced retinal vein occlusion that has resulted in abnormal retinal vessels growing from the retina into the eye.
• The laser treats the peripheral retina, reducing the risk of bleeding in the eye and retinal detachments secondary to these abnormal blood vessels.

Eye surgery “vitrectomy”

• In patients with bleeding in the eye that does not clear, eye surgery may be necessary to remove the blood.

Control blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes

• Follow up with your primary care doctor or internist to ensure your blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol are well controlled.
  • Maintaining healthy levels can prevent further damage to blood vessels.
• Quitting smoking: This improves blood flow and overall vascular health.
• Managing other medical conditions: Addressing any underlying conditions like sleep apnea or blood clotting disorders can be crucial.

Key Takeaways:

• Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in managing complications secondary to RVO and minimizing vision loss.
• Consulting your ophthalmologist regularly while also addressing any potential risk factors proactively with your primary care doctor are key to maintaining good eye health.