- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: November 18, 2024
At Blue Fin Vision®, our premier eye clinic in London, we often encounter patients concerned about various eye conditions. One such condition that can significantly impact vision is retinal vein occlusion (RVO). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what retinal vein occlusion is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Understanding Retinal Vein Occlusion
Retinal vein occlusion is a condition where the blood flow in one of the veins that drain blood from the retina becomes blocked. This blockage can lead to bleeding, swelling, and potential vision loss. It’s the second most common retinal vascular disorder after diabetic retinopathy.
Types of Retinal Vein Occlusion
There are two main types of RVO:
- Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): This occurs when one of the smaller branch veins in the retina becomes blocked.
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): This is a more severe form where the main central retinal vein becomes occluded.
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the causes and risk factors of retinal vein occlusion is crucial for prevention and management. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can increase the risk:
Primary Risk Factors
- Age: RVO is more common in individuals over 50 years old.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure is a significant risk factor.
- Atherosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries can compress nearby veins.
- Diabetes: This condition can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including in the eyes.
Other Contributing Factors
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye can affect blood flow.
- Blood disorders: Conditions that increase blood clotting can lead to RVO.
- Smoking: This habit can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of clots.
- Obesity: Excess weight is associated with several RVO risk factors.
At Blue Fin Vision®, we conduct thorough assessments to identify any underlying conditions that may contribute to RVO.
Symptoms of Retinal Vein Occlusion
Recognising the symptoms of RVO is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:
- Sudden, painless vision loss: This can be partial or complete in the affected eye.
- Blurred or distorted vision: Objects may appear wavy or unclear.
- Dark areas or ‘floaters’ in vision: These can appear as spots or lines in your field of view.
- Difficulty seeing in dim light: Night vision may be particularly affected.
It’s important to note that RVO typically affects only one eye. However, having RVO in one eye increases the risk of developing it in the other eye.
Diagnosis of Retinal Vein Occlusion
At our London eye clinic, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify and assess retinal vein occlusions:
- 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.
- 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 Acuity Test: This helps determine the extent of vision loss.
Early diagnosis is key to preventing further vision loss and implementing effective treatment strategies.
Treatment Options for Retinal Vein Occlusion
While there’s no cure for retinal vein occlusion, 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
- Anti-VEGF Drugs: These medications, such as Lucentis, Eylea, Vabysmo, or Avastin, help reduce swelling and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Corticosteroids: These can help reduce inflammation and macular oedema.
- Laser Therapy
- Focal Laser Treatment: This can help reduce swelling in the macula.
- Pan-Retinal Photocoagulation: Used in cases where abnormal blood vessels have developed.
- Management of Underlying Conditions
Controlling hypertension, diabetes, and other contributing factors is crucial for preventing further occurrences.
- Blood-Thinning Medications
In some cases, anticoagulants may be prescribed to prevent future clots.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.
Living with Retinal Vein Occlusion
While RVO can be a challenging diagnosis, many patients maintain good vision with proper management. Here are some tips for living with RVO:
- 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 Retinal Vein Occlusion
While not all cases of RVO can be prevented, certain measures can reduce your risk:
- Regular Eye Exams: Early detection of risk factors can prevent RVO.
- Control Chronic Conditions: Manage hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is linked to several RVO risk factors.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise promotes overall cardiovascular health.
- Quit Smoking: This can significantly reduce your risk of RVO and other eye conditions.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Retinal Vein Occlusion 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
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 RVO 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 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 retinal vein occlusion. Contact us today to schedule your eye examination and take the first step towards protecting your vision for years to come.
