Retina Vein Occlusion

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is an eye condition that can affect your vision and even cause pain. Retina specialist Neel Lamba, MD, MBA, at Next Level Retina in Oak Brook, Illinois, has the expertise and experience to diagnose RVO and provide effective treatment. If you have concerns about your eyesight or notice unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to book an appointment today by phone or online.

What is retinal vein occlusion?

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a serious eye condition that occurs when one of the veins responsible for draining blood from your retina becomes blocked or narrowed. This blockage disrupts the normal blood flow, leading to a range of symptoms and potential vision loss. 

While it can happen suddenly, retinal vein occlusion often develops gradually, with symptoms worsening over time if left untreated.

What are the symptoms of retinal vein occlusion?

Symptoms of retinal vein occlusion may include sudden blurred vision, often affecting one eye more than the other. Floaters, dark spots, or lines may also appear. 

Peripheral vision loss and distorted vision, where straight lines seem wavy, are common. In addition, you may experience eye pain or pressure, especially if you have a complication like increased intraocular pressure.

What causes retinal vein occlusion?

Various factors can cause RVO, including:

Aging

As you age, your risk of developing retinal vein occlusion increases, often due to changes in your blood vessels and other age-related factors.

Hypertension

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your retina, leading to an increased risk of occlusion.

Diabetes

Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, can cause damage to the blood vessels in your retina, increasing the likelihood of vein occlusion.

Glaucoma

Elevated intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma can affect retinal blood flow and increase your risk of occlusion.

Blood disorders

Conditions like hypercoagulability or blood clotting disorders can predispose you to retinal vein occlusion.

Smoking

Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for various vascular diseases, including those affecting your retina.

How is retinal vein occlusion treated?

At Next Level Retina, Dr. Lamba may treat your RVO with:

Anti-VEGF injections

Intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications can help reduce swelling and improve your vision.

Steroid injections

Dr. Lamba may use corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and edema in your retina.

Laser therapy

Laser photocoagulation may be used to treat areas of retinal ischemia or seal leaking blood vessels.

Medication management

Controlling systemic conditions like hypertension and diabetes is essential for managing RVO and preventing further complications.

Surgery

In rare cases of severe RVO with complications, such as neovascularization or vitreous hemorrhage, Dr. Lamba may recommend surgical intervention.

If you have concerns about your eye health, book a comprehensive eye exam today by phone or online.