When a vein in the retina becomes blocked, it may prevent the affected area from getting
sufficient blood flow. This is called a retinal vein occlusion. Retinal vein occlusions can be
detected by a retinal exam or flourescein angiography. It is important to have your
physician look into any medical conditions you have that may be associated with retinal vein occlusion. You may be at risk for this condition if you have had:

• Glaucoma
• Diabetes
• Age-related vascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Blood disorders

You may have blurred vision, floaters, or experience eye pain if you have a retinal vein occlusion. There are two types of retinal vein occlusion. Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) means that your main retinal vein is blocked and blood cannot easily flow throughout your retina. Although the intensity of vision loss in younger people fluctuates, it often has a severe impact on the vision of older people. A smaller branch of the main retinal vein is blocked if you have branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). In this case, only the part of the retina drained by this branch vein is damaged. Vision loss varies but is generally not as severe as with a CRVO.

Currently, there is no cure for retinal vein occlusion, but close observation of the condition and/or laser surgery may help in preventing the condition from worsening. Treatment may cause a slight improvement, but may not result in complete recovery, of your vision.

Treatment for retinal vein occlusion includes:

• Injectable medication
• Laser surgery
• Retinal eye surgery