Patient Information
Retinal Occlusions

What is a Retinal Occlusion?

A series of conditions relating to the blockage of blood vessels within the eye, often resulting in sudden, painless vision loss.  The majority of cases are caused by atherosclerosis, or plaque build-up, although other factors such as emboli and inflammation or an underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and glaucoma.

A number of retinal occlusions

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) occurs when one of the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked or obstructed.

Branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) occurs when a small blood vessel in the retina becomes blocked, cutting off oxygen and nutrients to the affected area.

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) occur when the main vein that carries blood out of the retina becomes blocked.

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) occur when the main artery supplying oxygen and blood to the retina becomes blocked, leading to sudden and profound vision loss.

What are the symptoms of a Retinal Occlusion?

Sudden, painless vision loss that may be accompanied by other symptoms such as floaters or blurry vision, blind spot in one eye

What are the treatment options for a Retinal Occlusion?

Treatment options depend on the severity and location of the occlusion, but may include medications to dissolve clots and improve blood flow, laser therapy to open up blocked vessels, and surgery for more advanced cases.