If a small branch vein occludes, the damage to the retina is more limited. People with risk factors for heart disease are also at risk for retinal vein occlusions. Diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and high blood pressure and family history of cardiovascular disease are at greatest risk. Symptoms Sudden blurred vision is the main symptom, however some people will experience unusual visual phenomenon in their vision. Floaters are less common but can also occur.
Pain is rare, but can occur in severe central retinal vein occlusions.
A fluoresceine angiogram helps determine the nature of the blockage and helps determine the need for future care and treatments. This test involves injecting a dye into a vein and photographing it as it flows through the eye. Blood tests and a physical examination are also frequently helpful. There is no cure for retinal vein occlusion. The disease is analogous to a stroke in the brain where neural tissue is deprived of blood.