Retinal Vein Occlusion – Estero

Understanding Retinal Vein Occlusion and How Dr. Marilyn Marquez Can Help in Fort Myers, FL

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a serious eye condition that can lead to sudden vision loss or impairment. This blockage of the veins that carry blood away from the retina affects thousands of people each year, particularly those with underlying health issues. If left untreated, RVO can result in permanent vision damage. Fortunately, with the right care and management, individuals with this condition can preserve their vision and prevent further complications. In Fort Myers, FL, Dr. Marilyn Marquez is a trusted specialist who offers expert care for patients with retinal vein occlusion.

What Is Retinal Vein Occlusion?

Retinal vein occlusion occurs when one of the veins that drains blood from the retina becomes blocked, leading to fluid buildup, swelling, and damage to retinal tissue. The retina is essential for vision, as it captures light and sends visual information to the brain. When the veins in the retina are blocked, it prevents proper blood flow, leading to leakage of blood and fluid into the retinal layers.

There are two main types of retinal vein occlusion:

1. Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): This occurs when one of the smaller branch veins in the retina is blocked. BRVO typically affects one part of the retina and causes partial vision loss.
2. Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): In this type, the main vein that drains blood from the retina becomes blocked, leading to more widespread damage. CRVO is generally more severe and can cause significant vision impairment or blindness.

Risk Factors for Retinal Vein Occlusion

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing RVO, including:

• High blood pressure: Hypertension is a significant contributor to the development of retinal vein occlusion.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk due to the damage that the condition can cause to blood vessels.
• Glaucoma: Elevated pressure within the eye can increase the risk of vein occlusion.
• Age: RVO is more common in individuals over the age of 50.
• High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels can lead to the narrowing and hardening of blood vessels, contributing to vein blockage.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of blood clot formation and vascular problems, which can lead to RVO.

Symptoms of Retinal Vein Occlusion

The symptoms of retinal vein occlusion often come on suddenly and can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common signs include:

• Sudden, painless vision loss in one eye
• Blurry or distorted vision
• Dark spots or floaters in your vision
• Swelling of the retina, known as macular edema

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage and increase the chances of preserving your vision.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal Vein Occlusion

When you visit Dr. Marilyn Marquez in Fort Myers, FL, she will conduct a thorough eye exam to diagnose retinal vein occlusion. This often includes:

• Dilated eye exam: Allows Dr. Marquez to examine the retina for signs of vein occlusion.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed images of the retina, helping to detect swelling or fluid buildup.
• Fluorescein angiography: Involves injecting a dye into your bloodstream to highlight the retinal blood vessels and detect any blockages or leaks.

Once diagnosed, the treatment for retinal vein occlusion focuses on managing the condition, reducing swelling, and preventing further complications such as macular edema or neovascularization (growth of abnormal blood vessels). Treatment options may include:

1. Anti-VEGF Injections: These medications (such as Avastin, Eylea, or Lucentis) work by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which contributes to the growth of abnormal blood vessels and swelling. Anti-VEGF injections help reduce fluid buildup and improve vision.
2. Steroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina.
3. Laser Treatment: Laser photocoagulation can be used to seal off leaking blood vessels and prevent further vision loss. This treatment is often recommended for patients with macular edema due to RVO.
4. Managing Underlying Health Conditions: Since conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol contribute to retinal vein occlusion, controlling these factors is essential. Dr. Marquez works closely with patients to manage these underlying health issues, which can help prevent future complications.

Why Choose Dr. Marilyn Marquez in Fort Myers for Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment?

Dr. Marilyn Marquez is an experienced retina specialist serving the Fort Myers community. Her extensive background in diagnosing and treating retinal conditions makes her an excellent choice for those dealing with retinal vein occlusion. Dr. Marquez takes a patient-centered approach to care, offering personalized treatment plans that address both the eye condition and any underlying health issues contributing to the problem.

At her Fort Myers office, Dr. Marquez uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment options to ensure that patients receive the best care possible. Her compassionate approach and commitment to preserving her patients’ vision have earned her a reputation as a trusted retina care specialist.

Preventing Vision Loss Through Regular Eye Exams

If you have any of the risk factors associated with retinal vein occlusion, regular eye exams are critical for early detection and prevention. Dr. Marquez encourages her patients to undergo comprehensive eye exams, especially if they have conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or glaucoma. These exams can help detect early signs of vein occlusion and prevent permanent vision damage.

During your visit, Dr. Marquez will assess the health of your retina and blood vessels to ensure that any issues are caught early. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can make a significant difference in maintaining your eyesight.

Living with Retinal Vein Occlusion

While retinal vein occlusion can cause significant vision loss, many patients are able to manage the condition and maintain their quality of life with the right treatment. With ongoing care and regular follow-up appointments, Dr. Marquez helps her patients adapt to vision changes and take the necessary steps to prevent further complications.

In some cases, visual aids such as magnifying lenses or specialized glasses can help improve daily functioning. Dr. Marquez can provide recommendations for vision aids that can assist with reading, driving, and other activities.

Conclusion

Retinal vein occlusion is a serious eye condition that requires immediate attention and expert care. If you’re experiencing symptoms of RVO or have risk factors for the condition, schedule an appointment with Dr. Marilyn Marquez in Fort Myers, FL. With her specialized knowledge and personalized treatment approach, Dr. Marquez will work with you to manage the condition and protect your vision.

Come See Us at Tyson Eye

At Tyson Eye, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for all your eye health needs. Whether you’re seeking routine eye exams, specialized treatments, or advanced surgical options, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

With six convenient locations across the region—Cape Coral, Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples—Tyson Eye is committed to making high-quality eye care easily accessible to you.

Don’t wait to prioritize your eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today to receive the expert care you deserve. Call us at 239-542-2020 to schedule your consultation.