Learning you’re at risk for retinal vein occlusion is the first step toward preventing it. Talk to your ophthalmologist about your level of risk and how to lower it.

It’s also important to talk to your primary care physician about underlying conditions that raise your risk for blood flow problems. They’ll recommend treatments as needed to manage those conditions and help keep your eyes — and whole body — healthy.

Specific things you can do to lower your risk include:

  • Follow a diet that supports your heart and blood vessel health.
  • Make exercise part of your daily routine.
  • Keep a weight that’s healthy for you.
  • Avoid smoking and all tobacco products.