Retinal Vein Occlusion
What it is
A retinal vein occlusion happens when a vein draining blood from the retina becomes blocked. Blood and fluid may leak into the retina.
It may affect one branch vein or the main central retinal vein.
Common symptoms
- Sudden painless blurry vision
- Dark spots or missing areas
- Distorted central vision
- Vision loss that may be mild or severe
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis may include dilated exam, OCT, retinal photos, and fluorescein angiography.
Treatment options
- Anti-VEGF injections are commonly used for swelling in the macula.
- Current anti-VEGF options may include Avastin, Lucentis, Eylea, Eylea HD, and Vabysmo, depending on the type of vein occlusion and local availability.
- Steroid injections or implants may be used in selected patients, especially when swelling continues despite injections or when visit timing is difficult.
- Laser may be used for abnormal blood vessel growth or certain branch vein cases. It is less often the first treatment for center-involving swelling than it was in older booklets.
- Your primary doctor may check blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, sleep apnea, and other risk factors.
What patients can do
- Keep blood pressure and diabetes well controlled.
- Do not miss follow-up, because abnormal new vessels can grow later.
- Tell your doctor about a history of blood clots, stroke, or unusual bleeding.