Retinal vein occlusion happens when a blockage develops in a retinal vein at the back of the eye. The blockage itself can't be removed, but complications, such as swelling in the macular, can be treated to prevent any further vision loss.
Symptoms of retinal vein occlusion include blurred vision, a blind spot in your central vision, or loss of vision. The symptoms can develop quickly. It isn't normally painful unless you have complications like abnormal new blood vessels leading to glaucoma. You can learn more about the symptoms on the Moorfields Eye Hospital website.
Although there is a risk to your central vision in the affected eye, it's possible to adapt and continue enjoying daily life with retinal vein occlusion.
Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) occurs when the main vein in the retina at the back of the eye becomes blocked. Central retinal vein occlusion can cause severe loss of vision because it affects the macula at the centre of the retina.
Central retinal vein occlusion normally affects one eye and is painless unless you develop complications. The blockage can't be unblocked, but complications can be treated to prevent further loss of vision. Your ophthalmologist will also discuss risk factors that you can manage to limit the chance of central retinal vein occlusion happening in the other eye.
Everyone with retinal vein occlusion will need regular follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to detect any complications which may need treatment. All treatments come with potential risks and side effects, and the right decision for you will depend on your diagnosis and circumstances. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the pros and cons of treatments with you, including the option to have your condition monitored rather than treated.
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