Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) is a serious eye condition that can lead to significant vision loss. Our expert eye doctors are here to help you manage and understand CRVO.
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) is an eye condition that affects the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—when the main vein responsible for draining blood becomes blocked. Early treatment is essential because timely intervention can reduce the risk of further vision loss. Our eye doctors are here to offer guidance, care, and comprehensive evaluations to help you understand and manage CRVO.
CRVO occurs when the central retinal vein, which carries blood away from the retina, becomes obstructed either partially or completely by a blood clot. When this critical drainage pathway is blocked, blood and fluid accumulate in the retina, leading to swelling and blurred vision, particularly in the central area known as the macula. This condition is most commonly seen in people over the age of 50, and while it typically affects only one eye, its impact on vision can vary significantly between individuals.
CRVO can be classified into two primary types, each differing in severity and visual prognosis:
Both types lead to fluid buildup in the retina, particularly affecting the macula, which is essential for central vision. It is important to note that even mild cases can worsen without early diagnosis and treatment.
Call now to schedule an evaluation and take the first step towards protecting your vision.
The primary effect of CRVO is the sudden blurring or loss of vision in one eye. This happens because the blockage in the central retinal vein results in blood and fluid leaking into the retina, especially into the macula—the part of the retina that manages our central vision. As the macula swells, the clarity of what you see is compromised, often causing images to appear distorted or out of focus.
Over time, if blood circulation remains reduced, the retina may not receive enough oxygen, and the nerve cells responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain can begin to deteriorate. In severe cases, vision loss can happen abruptly, and some patients may even lose all vision in the affected eye. This makes it critical to seek help from our eye doctors as soon as you notice any unusual changes in your vision.
The symptoms of CRVO can vary widely, depending on the severity of the blockage. Here are some common signs to look out for:
It’s important to be aware that some patients with very mild CRVO experience transient visual obscurations. If your symptoms come and go, it’s still wise to consult with our eye doctors, as early diagnosis can prevent further vision loss.
Call now to schedule an evaluation and take the first step towards protecting your vision.
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) can lead to vision loss. Find expert eye doctors to help manage this serious condition effectively.