Some individuals may experience blockages in the eye's blood vessels, causing vision problems and leading to blindness. Our ophthalmologist can diagnose this serious condition and offer several effective treatments to preserve vision. We provide experienced care for retinal vein occlusion and other retinal diseases at West Texas Eye Associates in Lubbock, TX.
What Is a Retinal Vein Occlusion?
An “occlusion” is a blockage, usually in a blood vessel, that can lead to serious damage. This occlusion in a retinal vein occurs in the eyes, causes blurring of vision pain, and can be serious enough to cause blindness in the eye. Retinal vein occlusion can occur in the central part of the retina or one of the branches of the main vein of the retina.
Causes of Retinal Vein Occlusion
The reasons why retinal vein occlusions occur are not well understood, but certain conditions increase the risk of developing an occlusion. Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or glaucoma increase your risk for this disorder.
Diagnosis of Retinal Vein Occlusion
Our eye doctor will do several tests to determine if you have had a retinal occlusion. First, the pupil is dilated so the doctor can view the interior structures of the eye. Angiography uses a dye injected into the arm, which then travels through the bloodstream into the eye, revealing any blockages that may be present. Optical coherence tomography is another test used, which detects swelling in the macula of the eyes.
How Is Retinal Vein Occlusion Treated?
Certain types of medication may be injected into the eye to reduce swelling and slow vision loss. Laser eye surgery is sometimes necessary to shrink blood vessels in the eyes. Treatment must also include careful management of any health problems contributing to retinal vein occlusion risk. Managing blood sugar levels and treating high blood pressure or glaucoma are critical to managing eye and vision problems.
Visit West Texas Eye Associates for an Ophthalmologist
Our eye specialists are committed to providing the highest quality care for our patients in Lubbock, TX, Midland, and surrounding communities. We treat various eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal issues. Contact West Texas Eye Associates today at 806-792-5900 for an appointment to examine your eyes and learn about retinal vein occlusion treatments.
