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- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: November 19, 2024
At Blue Fin Vision®, our premier eye clinic in London, we often encounter patients with various retinal conditions. One such condition that can significantly impact vision is central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what CRVO is, its causes, symptoms, and the cutting-edge treatments available.
Understanding Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
Central retinal vein occlusion is a serious eye condition that occurs when the main vein that drains blood from the retina becomes blocked. This blockage can lead to reduced vision and other complications. CRVO is the second most common retinal vascular disorder after diabetic retinopathy.
Key Facts About CRVO:
- It typically affects one eye at a time
- More common in people over 50 years old
- Can lead to sudden, painless vision loss
- May cause complications if left untreated
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the causes of CRVO is crucial for prevention and management. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can increase the risk:
Primary Risk Factors:
- Age: The risk increases significantly after age 50
- Hypertension: High blood pressure is a major risk factor
- Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries can affect retinal blood flow
- Diabetes: This condition can damage blood vessels throughout the body
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye can affect blood flow
Other Contributing Factors:
- Smoking
- High cholesterol levels
- Obesity
- Blood disorders that increase clotting
- Certain inflammatory conditions
At Blue Fin Vision®, our experienced ophthalmologists conduct thorough assessments to identify any underlying conditions that may contribute to CRVO.
Types of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
CRVO is typically classified into two main types:
- Non-ischemic CRVO:
- Less severe form
- Accounts for about 75% of cases
- Generally has a better visual outcome
- Ischemic CRVO:
- More severe form
- Can lead to significant complications
- Higher risk of vision loss
Symptoms of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
Recognising the symptoms of CRVO is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:
- Sudden, painless vision loss in one eye
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Dark areas or ‘floaters’ in the field of vision
- Difficulty seeing in dim light
- In some cases, complete loss of vision in the affected eye
It’s important to note that CRVO symptoms can develop rapidly, often over hours or days. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Complications of CRVO
If left untreated, CRVO can lead to several serious complications:
- Macular Oedema: Swelling in the central part of the retina, which can cause significant vision loss
- Neovascularisation: Growth of abnormal new blood vessels
- Neovascular Glaucoma: A severe form of glaucoma caused by abnormal blood vessel growth
- Retinal Detachment: In severe cases, the retina may detach from the back of the eye
Diagnosis of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
At our London eye clinic, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify and assess CRVO:
- Dilated Eye Examination: This allows our specialists to thoroughly examine the retina and its blood vessels.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, helping to assess macular oedema.
- Fluorescein Angiography: A special dye is injected into the arm, which then travels to the eye’s blood vessels, allowing us to identify any blockages or leaks.
- Visual Field Test: This helps determine the extent of vision loss and which areas of vision are affected.
Early diagnosis is key to preventing further vision loss and implementing effective treatment strategies.
Treatment Options for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
While there’s no cure for CRVO, several treatments can help manage the condition and prevent further vision loss. At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer a range of advanced treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs:
- Intravitreal Injections
These are the mainstay of treatment for macular oedema associated with CRVO:
- Anti-VEGF Drugs: Medications such as aflibercept (Eylea), ranibizumab (Lucentis), bevacizumab (Avastin), and faricimab-svoa (Vabysmo) help reduce macular oedema and improve vision.
- Corticosteroids: These can help reduce inflammation and macular oedema.
- Laser Therapy
- Panretinal Photocoagulation: Used to prevent neovascular glaucoma in cases of ischemic CRVO.
- Management of Underlying Conditions
- Controlling hypertension, diabetes, and other contributing factors is crucial for preventing further occurrences.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up
- Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.
Living with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
While CRVO can be a challenging diagnosis, many patients maintain good vision with proper management. Here are some tips for living with CRVO:
- Attend Regular Check-ups: Consistent monitoring is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
- Manage Underlying Health Conditions: Keep blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol under control.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking can all contribute to better eye health.
- Use Visual Aids: If needed, various devices can help with daily tasks affected by vision changes.
Prevention of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
While not all cases of CRVO can be prevented, certain measures can reduce your risk:
- Regular Eye Exams: Early detection of risk factors can prevent CRVO.
- Control Chronic Conditions: Manage hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is linked to several CRVO risk factors.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise promotes overall cardiovascular health.
- Quit Smoking: This can significantly reduce your risk of CRVO and other eye conditions.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for CRVO Care?
At Blue Fin Vision®, our London eye clinic offers:
- Expert Care: Our team of specialist ophthalmologists are leaders in diagnosing and treating retinal vein occlusions.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies for optimal outcomes.
- Personalised Treatment: Each patient receives a tailored care plan based on their specific condition and needs.
- Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis through to long-term management, we provide continuous care and support.
- Convenient Location: Our clinic is easily accessible in central London.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Eye Health
Central retinal vein occlusion is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and expert care. At Blue Fin Vision®, we’re committed to providing the highest standard of care for CRVO patients, utilising the latest advancements in eye care to preserve your vision and improve your quality of life.
If you’re experiencing any sudden changes in vision or are concerned about your risk of central retinal vein occlusion, we encourage you to book an appointment at our London eye clinic. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing this condition and preserving your vision.
Remember, your eye health is precious. Trust the experts at Blue Fin Vision® to provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for all your eye health needs, including the management of central retinal vein occlusion. Contact us today to schedule your eye examination and take the first step towards protecting your vision for years to come.
