Understanding Retinal Vein Occlusion
What is Retinal Vein Occlusion?
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) is an eye condition where a blood vessel in the retina—the layer at the back of your eye that helps you see—becomes blocked. This blockage can lead to a buildup of blood and fluid, severely impacting your vision.
The condition can manifest in two forms: Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO), affecting the main vein of the retina, and Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO), affecting smaller branches. Depending on the type and severity, the effects of retinal vein occlusion can range from minor visual disruptions to severe vision loss.
What Causes Retinal Vein Occlusion?
The specific causes of retinal vein occlusion are not entirely clear, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of experiencing this condition:
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Vascular Diseases
It’s essential to manage these risk factors through lifestyle changes and medication where necessary, and to have regular eye examinations, especially if you fall into one or more of these risk categories.
Recognizing the Signs
Retinal vein occlusion may not always give clear early warnings. Your vision might gradually become blurry or you could suddenly lose significant sight. Stay alert for these critical signs and symptoms:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Sudden loss of vision
- Floaters – small, shadowy shapes that appear in your vision that may look like specks or threads
- Feeling of pressure or pain in your eye
When to Seek Care for Retinal Vein Occlusion
If you notice any of the above signs or symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional immediately. Prompt detection and treatment of RVO can help prevent further vision loss.
Treatment Options
At Milwaukee Eye Care, our approach to managing Retinal Vein Occlusion centers on stopping the disease’s progression and addressing any contributing health issues. Depending on your specific situation, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Eye Injection Medication: Your eye doctor may inject a drug into your eye to reduce swelling and help stop the growth of new blood vessels. The injection would be needed ongoing on a regular schedule to control the disease.
- Laser Treatment: Dr. Mackenzie Sward may use laser therapy in areas of your retina to prevent formation of abnormal blood vessels.
- Steroid Implant: a prescription medicine implant is injected into the eye to help treat swelling.
Dr. Sward will design a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your condition and overall health.
At Milwaukee Eye Care, our mission is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals with Retinal Vein Occlusion. If you are experiencing symptoms of RVO, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better eye health.
