Lower Your Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Risk with Diet and Exercise

The prevalence of uncontrolled high blood pressure, obesity and cardiovascular disease within the Caribbean are among the three most common risk factors for branch retinal vein occlusion. Just like they do with the heart, the arteries and veins are also responsible for circulating blood to the eyes. The retina is comprised of a single primary artery as well as a primary vein. Should this vein become blocked, it can lead to what’s called branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

If a vein becomes blocked, fluid and blood may “spill” into the retina. The macula may, therefore, swell because of this fluid, negatively affecting one’s central vision. If there is no blood circulation, the eye’s nerve cells may die, further deteriorating vision.

One of the most common symptoms of BRVO is experiencing blurred or a loss of vision in the eye, partially or entirely. This can happen quite suddenly or it may happen over a period of time, and it usually happens only in one eye. Men and women over the age of 50 are particularly susceptible to BRVO as well as individuals suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, or glaucoma.

As there is currently no cure for BRVO, effective ways to lower risk include refraining from smoking, maintaining a healthy weight via a diet that’s low in fat, and exercising regularly.

This information is presented by Retina Macula Specialists of Miami, the largest private retina practice in the city. We are a nationally acclaimed retina practice dedicated to the medical and surgical management of vitreoretinal diseases. Each of our extensively trained doctors is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and ready to help treat eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy treatment, retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration, and more. We have three convenient locations in Miami, Coral Gables, and North Miami Beach. For contact information or to request an appointment, please visit http://retinamaculamiami.com.