What are Risk Factors for Retinal Vein Occlusion?
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) can affect anyone, but certain factors increase your risk of developing it.
- These can be broadly categorized into two groups: modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.
Modifiable risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sleep apnea
- The above risk factors can all lead to damage of blood vessels throughout the body and increase the risk of blood clots, both of which can contribute to RVO.
- Certain medications
- Some medications, such as oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, can slightly increase the risk of RVO, especially in individuals with other risk factors.
Non-modifiable risk factors:
- Family history: If you have a close family member with RVO, you may be at slightly higher risk than the general population.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions like glaucoma, high blood viscosity, and blood clotting disorders can also increase the risk of RVO, particularly in younger patients.
Key Takeaways:
- While some risk factors for retinal vein occlusion are beyond your control, many are modifiable.
- Taking steps to control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing sleep apnea can significantly reduce your risk of RVO.
The doctors at Retina Associates of Florida provide the latest diagnostic and treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in their Tampa, Brandon and Lakeland offices.
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