Retinal Vein Occlusion: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Retina, a sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eyeball — transforms light into signals and sends it to the brain. Retina vein occlusion occurs when a nerve in the retina becomes blocked and causes blurriness or even blindness in the eye. This eye disorder is similar to retinal artery occlusion (also known as eye stroke).
The damage occurs when a vein is not able to circulate blood which in turn increases the pressure inside the eye. It can cause a fluid leak, swelling or bleeding. This eye problem can damage your eye only in a few minutes.
The pressure in the eye can cause swelling, fluid leaks and even bleeding. The blockage is due to the formation of a blood clot in the vein.
Blood vessels cross each other at the back of the eye. Hardening the artery — the opening is narrowed as it develops pressure on it. As a result, the blood flow is choppy and leads to blood clots.
Since diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol are directly involved in controlling the flow of blood, people having these diseases are prone to RVO.
Table of Contents
What Increases the Risk of RVO:
- Older age
- Glaucoma
- Trauma to the eye
- Atherosclerosis (Hardened arteries)
- Overweight
- Leukemia
- Smoking
- Lymphoma patients
- Multiple myeloma patients
Symptoms
You may not always know that you have retinal vein occlusion. Almost always, it happens only in one eye. Some people, especially those with a blockage in smaller blood vessels — have no symptoms.
However, you may notice:
- Blurry or missing vision in part or the whole eye
- Dark spots or lines floating in your vision
- Pain and pressure in the eye
Consult a doctor immediately, If you have any of these symptoms.
