Central vein occlusion, also called central retinal vein occlusion or CRVO, is a condition that occurs when a specific vein in the eye becomes blocked. The result can be a major loss of vision that comes on suddenly in a single eye. It most commonly affects older adults and is most prevalent in those who already have underlying health issues. To prevent an additional loss of vision and manage the symptoms, early detection and prompt treatment are key.
Causes of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
While it is known that CRVO is caused by a blockage in the central retinal vein, typically a blood clot, the reason for the development of the clot is unknown. It can be suspected that other health issues that have an impact on the circulatory system could ultimately lead to the formation of the clot. For example, diseases that result in narrowed blood vessels, inflammation, or thickened blood could contribute to a blockage in the central retinal vein.
Risk Factors For Central Vein Occlusion
There are a number of risk factors that heighten a person’s chances of developing this condition. Age is the most significant one, as CRVO is statistically more likely to occur in individuals aged 50 and older. High blood pressure is also a risk factor due to its ability to damage blood vessels. Furthermore, those who have been diagnosed with diabetes or high cholesterol are also at higher risk of CRVO. Smoking is additionally a risk factor, as is a diagnosis of glaucoma, which elevates pressure in the eye and impacts blood flow.
Symptoms of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
Patients with CRVO develop vision problems in one eye seemingly out of nowhere and without any associated pain. The degree of vision loss can vary from person to person according to the severity of the blockage. For example, some people notice generally blurred vision, while others almost completely lose their sense of vision.
If you experience any of the following in one eye, reach out to Sight360 as soon as possible for an examination and diagnosis:
- Distorted vision
- Blurry vision
- Vision loss
- Dark spots
- Floaters
- Retina swelling (macular edema)
Prognosis for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
The prognosis for this condition depends upon the extent of the blockage, as well as the timeliness of treatment. Some patients experience gradual improvements in their ability to see over time, while others suffer from vision loss in one eye permanently. While stabilization is common with the proper treatment, the restoration of full vision is not.
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion vs. Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
CRVO is sometimes confused with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO), as both are conditions caused by blockages in veins in the retina. However, BRVO affects a smaller vein and tends to cause less severe and more localized symptoms. That being said, both conditions require prompt treatment to limit the potential for further vision loss.
Central Vein Occlusion Treatment Options
Although no cure is available for CRVO, some treatment methods can be used to improve patient outcomes and manage symptoms:
- Eye injections – Medications can be injected to reduce swelling within the eye.
- Laser treatment – Lasers can be employed to seal blood vessels that are leaking.
- Surgery – In rare instances, a vitrectomy may be needed to drain fluid.
The proper management of underlying conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, can also limit the potential for complications and improve the patient’s prognosis.
Contact Sight360 for Immediate CRVO Treatment
Are you worried that you may be dealing with central vein occlusion? Because swift treatment is so important to limit the damage that this condition can do, don’t wait to reach out to the specialists at Sight360 today for an examination.