---
title: What is retinal vein occlusion?
description: Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a blockage of one of the veins draining blood from the retina. It leads to congestion, bleeding and often swelling at the macula. It can affect the central vein (CRVO) or a branch (BRVO), leading…
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-retinal-vein-occlusion/"
updated: "2025-12-12"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is retinal vein occlusion?

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a blockage of one of the veins draining blood from the retina. It leads to congestion, bleeding and often swelling at the macula. It can affect the central vein (CRVO) or a branch (BRVO), leading to vision loss or complications like glaucoma.

## Presentation and risks

People usually notice blurred or distorted vision in one eye. The condition is linked with age, high blood pressure, glaucoma and other vascular risk factors.

- Can affect the main central vein or one of its branches
- Macular oedema is a common cause of visual loss
- Treatment may include intravitreal injections and sometimes laser
- Systemic risk factor control helps reduce the chance of further events