Temporary Vision Loss: Causes and Next Steps

Q: Temporary Vision Loss: Causes and Next Steps

Hello, Sir： You mentioned that "the black spots... <br>will completely disappear in a few seconds, and after about thirty minutes, your vision will return to normal." If you experience symptoms such as dizziness and low blood pressure, it may be necessary to consider the issue of

The eyes can go blind?

Hello Doctor: I first experienced symptoms around the second year of junior high school, and it has been nearly ten years now.
The frequency of episodes is not high; over the past ten years, I have had about seven episodes.
Initially, I noticed black spots in my vision that would gradually expand, and within a few seconds, I would be unable to see at all.
After about thirty minutes, my vision would return to normal, and I could move around normally.
Due to work, I spent some time in China and had a neurological examination there.
The doctors mentioned that it might only be possible to observe the condition during an episode, but since I cannot get checked during an episode, I would like to ask what this might indicate and what further examinations I should consider.

Dan Dan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/04

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Sir: You mentioned that "the black spots...
will completely disappear in a few seconds, and after about thirty minutes, your vision will return to normal." If you experience symptoms such as dizziness and low blood pressure, it may be necessary to consider the issue of hypotension.
Low blood pressure can lead to insufficient blood flow to the retina, resulting in temporary vision loss.
If you also have accompanying headaches, it may be worth considering that migraines could be causing temporary visual impairment.
This type of visual disturbance typically occurs before the onset of a headache and is referred to as a migraine aura.
Clinically, the following evaluations may be arranged: ophthalmic examination to assess vision, intraocular pressure, and retinal health; neurological examination, including cervical ultrasound and autonomic nervous system testing; and possibly brain imaging studies.
I recommend consulting with both an ophthalmologist and a neurologist to discuss further evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss further.
Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/04/04

More Info

Understanding temporary vision loss can be quite concerning, especially when it has occurred multiple times over a span of several years. Based on your description, it seems you experience episodes of vision loss characterized by the appearance of black spots that expand, leading to a temporary loss of vision for about thirty minutes before returning to normal. This phenomenon can be attributed to several potential causes, and it is essential to explore these to determine the best course of action.

One possible explanation for your symptoms is a condition known as "visual migraine" or "retinal migraine." This condition can cause temporary visual disturbances, including the appearance of spots or flashes of light, and may lead to a temporary loss of vision in one eye. These episodes are often painless and can resolve on their own, typically within 20 to 30 minutes. However, it is crucial to differentiate this from more serious conditions that could also cause similar symptoms.

Another potential cause could be "transient ischemic attacks" (TIAs), which are often referred to as "mini-strokes." TIAs can cause temporary vision loss due to reduced blood flow to the retina or the brain. While TIAs usually resolve quickly, they can be a warning sign of a more significant stroke risk, and it is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect this might be the case.

Additionally, your symptoms could be related to "retinal detachment" or "vitreous detachment," where the gel-like substance in the eye pulls away from the retina, causing visual disturbances. While these conditions can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly, they often present with symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over the visual field.

Given that you have experienced these episodes for nearly ten years, it is advisable to undergo a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist, particularly a retina specialist. During this examination, the doctor may perform several tests, including:
1. Dilated Eye Exam: This allows the doctor to examine the retina and optic nerve for any abnormalities.

2. Visual Field Test: This assesses your peripheral vision and can help identify any blind spots or areas of vision loss.

3. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This imaging test provides detailed images of the retina and can help detect any structural issues.

4. Fluorescein Angiography: This test involves injecting a dye into your bloodstream to visualize blood flow in the retina and identify any blockages or leaks.

It is also essential to keep a record of your episodes, noting the duration, any accompanying symptoms (such as headaches or dizziness), and potential triggers (like stress or prolonged screen time). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the underlying cause.

In the meantime, consider the following steps to manage your symptoms and protect your eye health:
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate visual disturbances, so ensure you drink plenty of water.

- Manage Stress: Stress can trigger migraines and other visual disturbances, so practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.

- Limit Screen Time: Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to eye strain, which may contribute to your symptoms. Take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

- Regular Eye Exams: Continue to have regular check-ups with your eye care provider to monitor your eye health and any changes in your vision.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be benign, it is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions. A thorough examination by an eye specialist will provide clarity and help you understand the best course of action moving forward. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to maintaining good eye health and preventing potential complications.

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