Retinal Vein Occlusion: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?

Retinal vein occlusion is a blockage in one of the veins carrying blood away from the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. When a vein gets blocked, blood cannot flow out. As a result, this can cause swelling, bleeding, and vision problems. Retinal vein occlusion is also called an eye blood vessel blockage. It is a common cause of sudden vision loss, especially in older adults.

Common Symptoms and Warning Signs

It is important to know the signs of retinal vein occlusion. Early detection can help protect your vision. You may notice symptoms in one eye, or sometimes both. However, most people have symptoms in only one eye. Watch for these warning signs:

Sudden blurry or dim vision

Partial or complete loss of vision in one eye

Dark spots or floaters in your field of vision

Pain or pressure in the eye (rare)

Sometimes, symptoms develop slowly. But in many cases, vision changes happen quickly. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical help right away.

Main Causes and Risk Factors

Retinal vein occlusion happens when a blood clot blocks a vein in the retina. This blockage can damage the retina and affect your sight. Several factors can increase your risk. For example, you may be more likely to develop this condition if you have:

High blood pressure

Diabetes

High cholesterol

Glaucoma (high eye pressure)

Blood clotting problems

Smoking habits

Older age (over 50 years)

In addition, some people have a family history of blood vessel problems. Managing these risk factors can help lower your chances of getting retinal vein occlusion.

How Retinal Vein Occlusion Is Diagnosed

Doctors use several tests to diagnose retinal vein occlusion. First, your eye specialist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they will examine your eyes with special tools. Common tests include:

Eye exam: The doctor looks at the retina using a bright light and lens.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This scan shows swelling or fluid in the retina.

Fluorescein angiography: A dye is injected into your arm, and pictures are taken of your eye’s blood vessels.

Blood tests: These check for diabetes, high cholesterol, or clotting problems.

Early diagnosis is important. It helps your doctor start the right treatment and protect your vision.

Treatment Options for Retinal Vein Occlusion

Treatment for retinal vein occlusion depends on the type and severity. While some people recover on their own, many need medical care. Your doctor may suggest:

Medicines: Eye injections can reduce swelling and improve vision. These include anti-VEGF drugs and steroids.

Laser therapy: A laser can seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage.

Managing health conditions: Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol is key.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, this is less common. Always follow your doctor’s advice for the best results. For more information, you can visit trusted sources like the CDC or peer-reviewed journals.

Prevention Tips and Healthy Eye Habits

Although not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk. Try these healthy habits:

Keep your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol under control

Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products

Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet

Visit your eye doctor for regular check-ups

Take medicines as prescribed by your doctor

Additionally, wearing sunglasses and protecting your eyes from injury can help. Good eye care supports healthy vision for life.

When to See an Eye Specialist

If you notice sudden vision changes, do not wait. Early treatment can save your sight. Always consult an eye specialist for personalized advice on retinal vein occlusion. Your doctor can guide you on the best steps for your eye health.