Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) occurs when the main retinal vein, essential for blood flow to the eye, becomes blocked. This blockage leads to a buildup of blood and fluid in the retina, causing swelling in the macula, which is crucial for central vision. In the long term, the lack of circulation can cause nerve cell death and further vision loss. In this article, with the help of specialists from Clínica Nivaria in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we'll tell you more.
Symptoms of CRVO
The most common symptom of CRVO is partial or total vision loss in one eye, which can occur suddenly or gradually. In severe cases, total vision loss can occur abruptly.
Floaters, spots, or dark lines in your vision are shadows cast by blood clots in the vitreous humor, originating in the blood vessels of the retina. In more severe cases, you may experience pain and pressure in the affected eye.
Causes of CRVO
Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) occurs when a blood clot blocks proper blood flow through the retinal vein. Diseases that narrow or harden arterial walls can compress the vein and cause occlusion.
Risk factors for CRVO
CRVO is more common in people over 50, especially those with:
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Arteriosclerosis
To reduce the risk of developing CRVO, it is recommended to follow a low-fat diet, exercise regularly, maintain an ideal weight, and not smoke.
CRVO Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made by dilating the pupils to examine the retina, along with an OCT scan to identify retinal inflammation. Fluorescein angiography or OCT angiography allows visualization of whether the retinal vein is blocked; the former involves injecting dye, while the latter does not.
Individuals under 40 years of age with CRVO can be evaluated for clotting problems.
Treatment of CRVO
The goal of the treatment is to stabilize vision by sealing the blood vessels that leak into the retina to prevent further inflammation of the macula.
Treatments include:
- Injections of anti-VEGF drugs into the eye to reduce macular swelling.
- Steroid medications injected into the eye to reduce inflammation.
- Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP), used in severe cases to prevent bleeding in the eye and control eye pressure.
Generally, an improvement in vision is observed months after treatment, although the degree of improvement will depend on the severity of the CRVO.
To learn more, we invite you to visit our Ophthalmology Clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionals. You'll receive the best ophthalmological care in the Canary Islands!
