A Clearer Path to Vision Recovery: Understanding Retinal Vein Occlusions

Imagine this: You’re enjoying your favorite hobby—reading, gardening, or spending time with family—when you suddenly notice blurred vision or dark spots in one eye. What started as a minor inconvenience quickly becomes a source of concern. This is a common scenario for patients experiencing a retinal vein occlusion (RVO), a blockage in the veins of the retina that can lead to vision loss.

What’s Happening with Your Vision?

Retinal vein occlusions occur when a blockage in the retinal veins disrupts the normal flow of blood. Depending on the location and type of blockage, patients may experience:

• Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) & Hemi-CRVO:
  These occur when the main retinal vein or one of its major branches is obstructed. They are often associated with higher risks—such as glaucoma and neovascular complications (abnormal blood vessel growth)—which can lead to further vision loss.

• Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO):
  Occurring in a smaller branch of the retinal vein, BRVO typically causes localized vision loss, often due to macular edema (swelling of the central retina). The prognosis is generally better than for CRVO when the blockage is less extensive.

The severity of your vision loss depends on factors such as the site of the occlusion and whether the blockage is ischemic (lack of blood flow) or nonischemic. In general, more-distal occlusions with less ischemia tend to have a more favorable outcome.

Latest Retinal Vein Occlusion Research & Recommendations

Recent guidelines highlight key findings and recommendations for the care of RVO:

• Prognosis Depends on Location and Severity:
  More distal RVOs with minimal occlusion typically have a better visual prognosis. In contrast, occlusions closer to the optic nerve (e.g., CRVO and hemi-CRVO) carry a higher risk of complications like anterior segment neovascularization and glaucoma.

• Macular Edema Is Common:
  Swelling in the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision—can significantly impair vision.
  First-line treatment: Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections help reduce edema and improve vision.
  Alternative options: Intravitreal corticosteroids and laser photocoagulation surgery may be considered when anti-VEGF therapy isn’t sufficient, keeping in mind the potential side effects (e.g., increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation).

• Systemic Health Matters:
  Since RVO is associated with modifiable systemic risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol—and even an increased risk of cardiovascular events—it is essential to work with your primary care physician for optimal overall health management.

These recommendations are based on extensive research and clinical trials, reinforcing that early, personalized intervention can make a significant difference in preserving your vision.

Your Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment Journey

At Ticho Eye Associates, we understand that a sudden change in vision can be frightening. Our approach is designed to provide you with a thorough evaluation and personalized care:

• In-Depth Eye Exam & Imaging:
  Your evaluation begins with a complete eye exam that includes:
  • Visual Acuity Testing
  • Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Measurement
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): To detect macular edema and assess retinal thickness.
  • Fundus Photography and Fluorescein Angiography (if needed): To evaluate the extent of retinal ischemia and leakage.
• Personalized Treatment Plan:
  Depending on your specific condition, treatment options may include:
  • Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Injections: To reduce macular edema and improve vision.
  • Intravitreal Corticosteroids: Considered when necessary, with careful monitoring for side effects.
  • Laser Photocoagulation Surgery: Particularly for cases of BRVO or for preventing neovascular complications in CRVO.
• Ongoing Monitoring & Support:
  Regular follow-up appointments help us track your progress and adjust treatment as needed. We also coordinate care with your primary care physician to manage systemic risk factors effectively.

Our expert team—Benjamin Ticho, MD, Derek Dawson, MD, and Laura Sanders, MD—is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your recovery journey.

Learn More & Stay Connected

• Meet Our Team:

  • Benjamin Ticho, MD
  • Derek Dawson, MD
  • Laura Sanders, MD

• Schedule Your Appointment Today:
  Early treatment is key. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, don’t wait.

We’re Here for You

Your vision is our priority. We proudly serve our community from three convenient locations:

• Chicago Ridge Office
• Tinley Park Office
• Munster Office

For complete addresses or to learn more about our services, please visit our website or call us at 708-873-0088.

Let us help guide you from uncertainty to a clearer, brighter future.