What is a Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)?
- It is a blockage in the veins in the eye. The veins in the retina are responsible for transporting used blood from the retina back into the body.
- The blockage of the vein causes blood to back up in the eye, which causes hemorrhages, swollen retinal veins, and potentially retinal swelling and vision loss.
- A retinal vein occlusion can happen in 2 ways:
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): This happens when the “main highway” vein gets blocked, which can impact the entire field of vision.
- Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): This is like a blockage on a smaller “side street,” which may cause vision loss in just a part of the eye.
- Most patients who have this problem have risk factors for vascular disease such as: diabetes, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, open angle glaucoma or a condition called thrombophilia.
- RVO is most common in people over 50 years, with the risk increasing significantly after 65 years.
- In younger patients, usually under the age of 40, checking for clotting disorders is important. Your doctor may find an important abnormality that needs to be treated.
- If there is a family history of strokes or miscarriages or if the patient has autoimmune problems, then the tests are particularly important.
- Following up with your primary care doctor for a review of your medical condition and treatment for any risk factors is also very important.
- Early detection and prompt treatment can reduce the risk of vision loss.
Key Takeaways:
- RVO is a blockage in a retinal vein, potentially causing vision loss.
- Act fast – see an eye doctor immediately if you suspect a RVO.
- Various treatment options can help manage complications and protect your vision.
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.
The website/blog does not provide medical, professional, or licensed advice and are not a substitute for consultation with a health care professional.