Retinal vein occlusion
A retinal vein occlusion occurs when a vein carrying blood away from the retina becomes blocked. This can cause sudden or gradual vision loss through swelling and bleeding in the retina.
A central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) affects the main vein; a branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) affects a smaller branch. Treatment depends on the type and severity, and may include retinal imaging, injections to reduce macular swelling and monitoring for abnormal new blood vessels or glaucoma. Laser treatment may be needed.
Read our retinal vein occlusion patient information for more detail about treatment, monitoring and what to expect.
Risk factors and monitoring
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking and glaucoma can contribute to retinal vein occlusion. Your GP and ophthalmologist can help manage these risks. Regular review is important even when no treatment is needed.
Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. We provide assessment, monitoring and treatment for dry and wet AMD.
Dry AMD usually progresses gradually. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessels that leak fluid or blood, and can cause rapid vision loss. Anti-VEGF injections are used to treat wet AMD. Follow-up and treatment intervals are tailored to your scans and response.
Monitoring, not smoking, a healthy diet and management of cardiovascular risk factors help protect your vision. Your ophthalmologist can advise whether an AREDS2 supplement is suitable for your stage of AMD.
Read our AMD patient information for more detail about treatment, monitoring and what to expect.
Diabetic eye disease
Diabetes can damage retinal blood vessels, causing diabetic retinopathy and macular oedema. These changes may be present before you notice symptoms, so regular eye examinations are important.
We provide imaging, monitoring, laser therapy, injection treatments and surgery when needed. Macular oedema can occur at any stage of retinopathy and is assessed separately. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the treatment and follow-up appropriate for you.
Read our diabetic eye disease patient information for more detail about treatment, monitoring and what to expect.
Ocular inflammatory conditions
Inflammation inside the eye, known as uveitis, may cause pain, redness, light sensitivity, floaters or blurred vision. It can be associated with autoimmune disease, medications or infections.
Management involves identifying the cause and treating inflammation promptly with topical, injected or systemic medication to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.
Changes in vision
Contact your eye specialist promptly if you notice new distortion or a change in central vision. Sudden vision loss, a curtain or shadow, or severe eye pain requires urgent assessment. Outside clinic hours, attend your nearest emergency department if urgent help is needed.