Temporary loss of vision in one eye (transient monocular blindness) is termed amaurosis fugax. This condition can be very serious and a precursor to permanent visual loss or stroke.
If you experience sudden loss of your central (reading or straight-ahead) vision, or a blurry or missing area of vision, call your family doctor or the offices of Karlik Ophthalmology at once.
Symptoms of transient visual loss
- Sudden, painless loss of vision
- Sudden increase in floating spots or cobwebs
- Blurred or missing area of vision
Causes of transient visual loss
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Glaucoma, diabetes and other conditions
Treatment for transient visual loss
The type of treatment depends on the cause. Further evaluation with tests including evaluation of heart rhythm, cerebral blood flow, or blood coagulation may be indicated. Therapy with anti-coagulant medication may be necessary in some patients.