What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?

The retina is one of the key components of the eye. It’s a layer of cells that uses light to send visual information to the brain. As with other parts of the body, the retina is vulnerable to problems. One such complication is when the flow of blood from the retina is blocked due to a clot in the retinal vein. The condition is called retinal vein occlusion (RVO). 

The office of Glaucoma Consultants of St. Louis is skilled at diagnosing and treating RVO as well as a wide range of eye conditions. Our goal is to maintain the best eyesight possible for each patient.

A blocked retinal vein is unable to drain blood from the retina, which leads the blocked blood vessel to hemorrhage and leak fluid. There are two types of RVO. The type depends on which vein is blocked. Central RVO is when the retina’s main vein is obstructed. Branch RVO is when one of the smaller veins that extend from the retina is clogged. 

Both forms of RVO cause the accumulation of fluid near the retina’s center and/or the development of irregular blood vessels that instigate increased eye pressure and fluid leaks. Left untreated, they can permanently hinder eyesight. 

The indicators of RVO span from slight to obvious, and usually only one eye is affected. The main symptom is blurred vision that deteriorates over the course of a few hours or a few days. Sometimes, though, blindness descends almost immediately.

RVO treatments include using a class of drugs called intravitreal corticosteroid injections. They are administered directly into the eye and counteract the inflammation and other effects caused by RVO-related complications. Follow-up visits to an ophthalmologist are needed to monitor the effects of the injection and to formulate additional treatments as needed. 

The office of Glaucoma Consultants of St. Louis is dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate eye care. Your good vision is our top priority. For more information about our many services, please call us today! 

By Glaucoma Consultants of St. Louis

July 25, 2023