Episode #13 - Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) – Understanding Vision Instability

Ayurveda and Eye Treatment is a podcast on the specialty of Eye treatment in Ayurveda. The podcast aims to give insights about treatment of eye diseases in Ayurveda. In this episode, Dr. P.K. Santhakumari, Chief Physician at Matha Ayurveda Eye Hospital, explains about why vision may remain unstable in Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) even after repeated procedures and ongoing treatment. The conversation explores the role of retinal circulation, recurrence of fluid accumulation. CRVO is a retinal vascular condition that occurs when the main vein responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked. Because of this blockage, normal blood flow out of the retina is affected, leading to increased venous pressure, retinal hemorrhages, fluid leakage and swelling inside the retina, especially in the macular region responsible for central vision.Patients with CRVO commonly experience sudden or progressive blurring of vision, distorted vision, difficulty in reading or reduction in visual clarity. In some cases, complications such as macular edema, ischemia or abnormal blood vessel formation can further affect visual prognosis and stability. In Ayurveda, CRVO is not viewed only as an isolated eye problem. The condition is understood by assessing the involvement of Doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha, along with disturbances affecting Raktha Dhatu and the retinal circulation. When Kapha creates obstruction within the channels and Pitta remains vitiated within the vascular system, proper nourishment and circulation inside the eye can become affected. The Ayurvedic perspective of supporting long-term retinal health and visual stability through a structured treatment approach. Treatment focuses on addressing the localized blockage, supporting healthy retinal circulation, removing unwanted Kapha accumulation and promoting the proper anulomana of Pitta to help maintain better visual stability over time.Shodhana treatments may also be considered as part of the treatment plan. These therapies are not approached as generalized detoxification procedures, but are planned carefully according to the patient’s condition, strength, stage of disease and associated systemic factors. The purpose is to support Dosha balance, improve systemic regulation and assist the body’s natural mechanisms involved in circulation and tissue nourishment. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment may involve internal medicines, external ocular therapies, dietary regulation and structured inpatient care. Shodhana treatments may also be incorporated as part of Dosha management to support systemic regulation and better tissue response.At Matha Ayurveda Eye Hospital, the approach towards CRVO is structured and individualized. Treatment is usually carried out with continuous monitoring, disciplined inpatient care and regular follow-up, as maintaining stability often requires long term attention rather than a single intervention.For more details about our approach to holistic eye care and personalized treatments, visit:For appointments call- +91 9847195533Website: https://zurl.co/G4xQmEmail: [email protected]