Retinal Vein Occlusion

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) occurs when one of the veins carrying blood away from the retina becomes blocked, leading to a build up of pressure and fluid leakage. This condition can cause swelling and damage to the retina, affecting your central and peripheral vision. Controlling underlying health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol is crucial in managing RVO.

Elderly male looking out of window in deep thought

Symptoms of Retinal Vein Occlusion

Retinal Vein Occlusion can present with various symptoms, which may develop suddenly or gradually, including:

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Sudden vision loss in one eye
  • Dark spots or a shadowy area in your vision

Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal Vein Occlusion

There are several treatments for RVO that can help manage the condition and preserve your vision. Several of our hospitals offer treatment for RVO with the first-line of treatment being Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections:

Anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-VEGF injections are used to reduce swelling and prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. These injections help to stabilise vision and, in some cases, improve it. This might sound daunting, but you won’t feel any pain, as you’ll be given anaesthetic eye drops to numb the eye beforehand.

Ongoing treatment plans

Based on your individual condition, our clinicians will create a personalised treatment plan which consists of three phases.

Flow chart showing the phases of Med Ret Treatment

This service is currently offered at: Birmingham, Cambridge, Carlisle, ChelmsfordColchester, Coventry, Gateshead, NewarkNorth TynesidePeterborough, Romford, Skelmersdale, Solihull, Stockton-on-Tees, Swansea