Protecting Your Vision from Retinal Blockages
If you've noticed sudden vision loss, blurry or distorted vision, or dark spots in your sight, you may be experiencing a retinal vein occlusion (RVO). This condition occurs when one of the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked—leading to swelling, bleeding, and potentially permanent vision damage.
At our Miami ophthalmology practice, our retina specialists offer advanced diagnosis and treatment for RVO, helping you manage the condition and preserve your sight.
What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?
Retinal Vein Occlusion is a vascular condition that occurs when a vein carrying blood away from the retina becomes blocked. This blockage prevents normal blood flow, causing fluid buildup, hemorrhages, and retinal swelling (macular edema). The condition is often associated with systemic health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
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There are two main types:
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): Involves the main retinal vein. Often more severe.
- Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): Involves one of the smaller branch veins. Usually affects a portion of the retina.
Both types require prompt treatment to avoid irreversible vision loss.
Symptoms of RVO
RVO symptoms can appear suddenly and vary depending on severity:
- Sudden blurred or distorted central vision
- Dark spots or shadows in your vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Visual disturbances in one eye
- Difficulty reading or seeing fine detail
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately. The sooner we can assess and treat the condition, the better your visual prognosis.
Who Is at Risk for RVO?
While RVO can happen to anyone, several factors increase your risk:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Diabetes or poor blood sugar control
- High cholesterol or other vascular conditions
- Glaucoma or elevated intraocular pressure
- Smoking
- Blood clotting disorders
- Age over 50
Our team will evaluate your overall health and work closely with your primary care provider or cardiologist if needed to manage contributing risk factors.
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosing RVO involves a comprehensive retinal exam using advanced imaging tools, such as:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)– To detect retinal swelling and fluid
- Fluorescein Angiography – To assess blood flow and pinpoint the blockage
- Fundus photography – To document retinal changes over time
These tools allow us to determine the extent of the blockage and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Retinal Vein Occlusion
While there is no “cure” for RVO, modern treatments can significantly reduce swelling, restore visual function, and prevent further damage. These include:
- Intravitreal Injections Medications such as anti-VEGF agents (e.g., Eylea®, Lucentis®) or corticosteroids are injected directly into the eye to reduce macular edema and control abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Laser Therapy In select cases, laser treatment may be used to seal leaking blood vessels or prevent neovascular complications.
- Ongoing Monitoring RVO is a chronic condition that requires consistent follow-up care. We monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed to maintain the best possible vision.
Don’t Delay—Protect Your Vision from RVO
If you’re experiencing sudden changes in vision or have been diagnosed with RVO, early treatment is key. Let our experienced retina team in Miami help protect your sight with expert, individualized care.
Call 305-854-4430 or request your appointment online today.