14206 Retinal Vein Occlusion Rvo

Overview

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a condition where a small vein carrying blood away from the retina – the thin light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye – becomes blocked. This blockage can cause blood and fluid to leak into the retina, leading to swelling and vision problems. It can happen suddenly and usually affects only one eye.

RVO is not rare, especially in older adults. It is one of the more common causes of vision loss related to the retina in people over 60, though it can occur at younger ages too.

It mainly affects adults over 50, and those with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, glaucoma, or a history of smoking. Sometimes it happens without any known risk factor.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden blurring of vision in one eye
• A dark spot or shadow in your side vision
• Distorted vision – straight lines may look wavy
• A feeling that part of your vision is missing
• Vision loss that is painless
• Occasionally, mild eye pain or pressure (though many people have no pain)

Symptoms in children

• RVO is very rare in children, but when it happens, symptoms may include sudden vision changes in one eye, squinting, or difficulty seeing. Children may not always tell you about vision problems, so watch for signs of clumsiness or a turned eye.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, the most common symptom is sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. This may happen on waking or during normal activities. Other symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, or visual distortions.

Causes

Main causes

• A blood clot or blockage in one of the retinal veins, often where an artery crosses over the vein.
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) that puts pressure on the retinal vein.
• Abnormal blood clotting tendencies that increase the risk of vein blockages.

Risk factors

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol and other blood fat problems
• Glaucoma – an eye condition that damages the optic nerve
• Smoking
• Being over the age of 60
• Some blood disorders that make clotting more likely

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you suddenly lose vision in one eye – even briefly – call your local emergency number or go to an emergency department immediately.
• If you notice a dark shadow, curtain, or blind spot in your vision, seek urgent eye care the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other risk factors, schedule regular eye exams to check for early signs of retinal problems.
• If you notice any persistent blurring or distortion that is not sudden, book an appointment with an eye specialist within a week.

Diagnosis

An eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) will examine your eyes using special instruments to look at the retina. They will also check your vision and measure the pressure in your eyes. If RVO is suspected, they may recommend further imaging to see the retina in detail.

Tests that may be done

• A dilated eye exam – drops widen your pupil so the doctor can see the back of your eye.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – a painless scan that takes cross-section pictures of the retina to check for swelling.
• Fluorescein angiography – a dye is injected into a vein in your arm, and photos are taken as it travels to your eye to show blocked areas and leaking blood vessels.
• A physical exam and blood tests to check for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

What to expect at your appointment

The eye exam is usually painless and takes about 30 minutes to an hour. You may have blurred vision for a few hours after the appointment because of the pupil-dilating drops. Your doctor will explain your results and decide whether you need any urgent treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for RVO focuses on reducing swelling in the retina, preventing complications, and preserving as much vision as possible. The right approach depends on how severe the blockage is and whether you have a type that affects the center of the retina (the macula). You may be referred to an eye specialist for ongoing care.

Self-care at home

• Keep all your eye care appointments – this helps track changes over time.
• Control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol by following your doctor's advice.
• If you take blood-thinning medicines exactly as prescribed, do not stop them without talking to your doctor.
• Wear sunglasses and use good lighting to make reading easier.
• Stop smoking if you smoke, as smoking worsens damage to blood vessels.

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend eye injections of medicines that help stop abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid in the retina. These are called anti-VEGF medicines, and they are given by an eye specialist in the clinic. In some cases, corticosteroid implants or laser treatment may be used to treat swelling or abnormal blood vessel growth. The exact treatment plan is individualised, and your ophthalmologist will discuss the risks and benefits with you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for RVO. It may be considered for certain complications, such as bleeding in the eye or retinal detachment, but this is uncommon. Most people are managed with injections, laser, or observation.

Living with this condition

Living with RVO may mean adapting your daily routines, especially if you have lasting vision problems. Use brighter lamps, magnifying glasses, and large-print materials. You may also benefit from vision rehabilitation services that teach new ways to do everyday tasks. Even if your vision does not fully return, many people learn to cope and maintain independence.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a heart-healthy diet and keep physically active, as this supports healthy blood vessels.
• Monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes.
• Quit smoking – your doctor or local health service can provide support.
• Protect your other eye – report any new vision changes quickly, because the risk is slightly higher in the other eye.
• Wear a medical alert card or bracelet if your doctor advises it, so you can explain your condition in emergencies.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can help control blood pressure and cholesterol. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish. Regular exercise such as brisk walking or swimming for at least 30 minutes most days can improve circulation and overall health. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Losing some or all of your vision can be distressing. It is normal to feel frustrated, anxious, or sad. If you notice these feelings lasting more than a couple of weeks, talk to your healthcare provider. They can connect you with counselling or support groups. If you ever feel in crisis or think about harming yourself, reach out for immediate help – call your local emergency number or a mental health crisis line.

Prevention

You cannot completely prevent RVO, but you can lower your risk by managing blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and glaucoma. Avoiding smoking and living a healthy lifestyle also help protect your vascular system. Regular eye exams can catch early changes before they become serious.

Screening programmes

If you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of retinal problems, talk to your doctor about how often you should have a dilated eye exam. Screening does not stop RVO from happening, but it can help detect conditions that increase your risk.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent blurred or distorted vision from retinal swelling (macular oedema)
• Development of abnormal, fragile blood vessels on the retina (neovascularisation) that can bleed into the eye
• A type of glaucoma called neovascular glaucoma that causes high eye pressure and can damage the optic nerve
• Severe and permanent vision loss if complications are not treated in time

Long-term outlook

Many people with RVO experience some improvement in vision over the first few months, even without treatment. With modern injections and laser therapies, the outlook has improved greatly. While some people do have permanent vision changes, most can keep their independence. Your eye specialist will help you navigate the best care to stabilise and preserve your vision.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.