Vascular Occlusion

What Is Retinal Vascular Occlusion?

Retinal vascular occlusion occurs when one of the veins or arteries in the retina becomes blocked, disrupting normal blood flow. The retina, located at the back of the eye, transforms light into signals that travel through the optic nerve to the brain, making clear vision possible. When blood flow is restricted, it can lead to serious complications such as swelling, bleeding, or even vision loss.

Types of Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

• Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO):
  This affects the eye’s main retinal vein near the optic nerve and can lead to significant vision loss.
• Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO):
  This occurs when a smaller branch of the retinal vein becomes blocked, often resulting in localized vision problems.

Both types can cause fluid buildup in the macula, leading to a condition called macular edema, which affects sharp, central vision.

Symptoms to Watch For

Retinal vein occlusion may cause symptoms such as:

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Sudden vision changes in one eye
• Dark spots or floaters in your field of vision

Some people may not experience symptoms initially. Regular eye exams are essential, as early detection can prevent complications.

Risk Factors and Causes

You may be at higher risk of RVO if you:

• Are over 50 years old
• Have high blood pressure, glaucoma, or diabetes
• Experience vascular diseases, blood clotting disorders, or poor circulation
• Smoke, are overweight, or take certain medications (e.g., oral contraceptives)

If RVO occurs in one eye, there’s a chance it may happen in the other eye in the future.

Complications of Retinal Vein Occlusion

• Macular Edema
  Swelling in the central retina that leads to blurry or reduced vision
• Neovascularization
  Growth of fragile, abnormal blood vessels that may leak or bleed
• Neovascular Glaucoma
  Painful pressure in the eye caused by blocked drainage channels
• Retinal Detachment
  In severe cases, abnormal vessels can cause the retina to pull away from the eye wall

Untreated RVO can lead to irreversible vision loss. Prompt evaluation and intervention are critical.

How We Diagnose RVO

At PremierVision Laser Center, Inc., we use advanced imaging tools to detect and monitor retinal vein occlusion, including:

• Ophthalmoscopy – to directly examine the retina
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – to assess macular swelling
• Fluorescein Angiography (FA) – to identify fluid leakage and abnormal blood vessels

These tests help us determine the best course of treatment based on your condition’s severity.

Treatment Options

Although RVO cannot be cured, treatments can reduce symptoms, improve vision, and prevent further damage. These may include:

• Anti-VEGF Injections
  Medications like LUCENTIS reduce macular edema and control abnormal vessel growth
• Laser Therapy
  Used to seal leaking blood vessels and reduce swelling
• Ongoing Monitoring and Management
  Controlling contributing health conditions (e.g., blood pressure, diabetes) helps prevent recurrence

Retinal Artery Occlusion (RAO): An Ocular Emergency

• Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO):
  A sudden blockage of the main retinal artery, often caused by a clot or embolus. CRAO causes immediate, painless vision loss and is considered a medical emergency. Vision can sometimes be preserved if treated within 90 minutes.
• Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO):
  This occurs when a smaller artery is blocked, often by a clot. If the blockage affects the macula, central vision is severely impaired.

Although there is no proven eye-specific treatment for CRAO or BRAO, early detection and systemic medical management are vital.

Protecting Your Vision

Managing your overall health is key to preventing future vascular occlusions. At PremierVision Laser Center, Inc., we work closely with each patient to monitor their eye health and address any underlying risks.

If you’ve noticed sudden vision changes or have conditions like hypertension or diabetes, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Your vision matters—and we’re here to protect it.