A vein occlusion occurs when a vein becomes blocked by a hardened and encroaching adjacent blood vessel. This blockage can cause swelling, hemmorhages, and a lack of oxygen. The actual conditions and symptoms vary from person to person and are dependent on whether a central vein or a branch vein is involved.

Branch vein occlusions offer greater improvent potential than central vein occlusions since central vein occlusions involve the deprivation of oxygen to the macula (the area responsible for central vision).

Signs and Symptoms
blurred vision
loss of central vision
sudden onset

Diagnosis
A dilated fundus examination is required and the doctor will likely perform a fluorescein angiogram to study the circulation of the eye.

Treatment
After an occlusion, the doctor will treat secondary complications such as abnormal vessel growth or swelling of the macula with laser treatments. Up to 1/3 of patients with central retinal vein occlusions can develop a painful, blinding glaucoma and may need laser treatments.

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