Central retinal vein occlusion

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a condition where the main vein that drains blood from the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) becomes blocked. When this vein is blocked, blood and fluid back up into the retina, causing swelling, bleeding, and damage to the delicate tissue needed for vision. This leads to sudden, painless vision loss in the affected eye, which can range from mild blurriness to severe loss of sight. CRVO is sometimes called a "retinal stroke" because, like a stroke in the brain, it involves a blockage of blood flow. The condition is more common in older adults and in people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, or blood clotting disorders. It can affect one or both eyes, though one eye is more typical. Treatment focuses on managing complications and preserving as much vision as possible. Anti-VEGF injections (medications injected into the eye) are the main treatment and help reduce swelling in the retina. Steroid implants may also be used. Laser treatment was once the standard but is now used less often. Managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes is also a critical part of care. While some people recover good vision, others may experience lasting vision problems, and complications like abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascularization) can lead to further issues if not treated promptly.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.Is my CRVO the non-ischemic or ischemic type, and what does that mean for my vision?,How often will I need eye injections, and how long will treatment continue?,What underlying health conditions should I be tested for or manage more aggressively?,What are the warning signs that my condition is getting worse or developing complications?,Should I be tested for blood clotting disorders, especially if I am younger?,What can I do to protect the vision in my other eye?,Are there low-vision resources or rehabilitation services that could help me?

Common questions about Central retinal vein occlusion