Helping to block the effects of CRVO
Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a serious condition that occurs when the vein becomes blocked and vision is lost. In most cases, the severity of the blockage determines the severity and permanence of the vision loss.
You may experience partial or complete CRVO
The retina needs a healthy flow of blood in order to do its job. When the retinal vein becomes partially blocked, blood builds up and causes retinal swelling and vision problems. If the vein becomes completely blocked, your eye is starved of the oxygen and nutrients that the blood normally supplies.
Understanding a CRVO diagnosis
Most patients who develop CRVO either maintain the initial vision loss caused by the condition or it eventually gets worse. If your loss is mild due to partial blockage, it may improve without treatment.
The Central Retinal Vein Occlusion Study
This clinical study showed that in patients with partial CRVO:
- 10% improved
- 50% stayed the same
- 33% worsened
With complete CRVO, spontaneous improvement is rare and vision loss is often permanent.
Severe CRVO
Abnormal blood vessels can grow into the drainage system of the eye, causing a severe form of glaucoma that can lead to pain and complete vision loss. Your eye will need to be monitored closely, especially in the six months after development.
Risk factors for CRVO
We can identify and treat your risk factors in order to decrease the possibility of progression or recurrence. Risk factors for CRVO may include:
- Glaucoma
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- High cholesterol and triglycerides
- Diabetes
- Atherosclerosis
- Coronary artery disease
- Stroke
- Blood clotting issues
- Blood vessel inflammation
- Increased blood thickness
- Oral contraceptive use
Treatment is available
Aspirin therapy may be recommended to help prevent further vascular damage. In addition, several medication therapies have been shown to be effective for managing CRVO. If abnormal blood vessels are detected, laser treatment combined with other therapies or surgery may be recommended.
Learn more about CRVO
Find out if you have signs of CRVO or risk factors that may lead to its development. Call for an appointment today: (855) 515-2020.