Unexplained Vision Loss

Overview and Facts about Unexplained Vision Loss

Unexplained vision loss is characterized by a loss of vision that lasts from a few seconds or minutes to a few days. Vision loss may affect part of or the entire field of vision and may occur in one or both eyes.

Damage along the visual pathway from the eyes to the brain or to the eye itself causes different types of vision loss.

Any sudden loss of vision may be a sign of something potentially serious, even if it is temporary or resolves on its own. If vision loss occurs, immediate evaluation by a health professional should be performed.

Signs and Symptoms of Unexplained Vision Loss

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause of vision loss. Common symptoms include:

• Painless, partial vision loss (peripheral vision or central vision)
• Complete vision loss
• Vision loss along with eye pain, redness and headache
• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Flashing lights or eye “floaters” (spots and flecks that appear to be floating around in your field of vision)
• The sensation of a "curtain" blocking your vision

Causes and Risk Factors of Unexplained Vision Loss

The causes of sudden vision loss are varied and range from conditions affecting the eyes to conditions affecting the visual processing centers in the brain.

While temporary vision loss may be due to something as simple as dry eyes or an ocular migraine, it may be an indication of something much more serious.

The most common causes of sudden vision loss include:

• Central retinal artery occlusion, which is a blockage in the central retinal artery
• Ischemic optic neuropathy, which is optic nerve damage caused by insufficient blood supply to the optic nerve
• Vitreous hemorrhage, which is blood in the vitreous humor (a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina)
• Retinal detachment, which is when the layer of tissue in the back of the eye (retina) pulls away from its normal position
• Optic neuritis, which is an inflammation that damages the optic nerve
• Giant cell arteritis, which is an inflammation of the arteries in the temples
• Acute angle closure glaucoma, which is a rapid increase in the pressure within the eye
• Trauma to the eye, such as a corneal injury
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack

Tests and Diagnosis of Unexplained Vision Loss

Sudden vision loss is an ocular emergency. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

A thorough eye evaluation and specialized tests will be performed to search for specific eye problems or other underlying medical conditions.

A neurological examination to test the function of the eyes and brain, as well as blood tests, and brain imaging tests may also be ordered to determine the cause of vision loss.

Treatment and Care for Unexplained Vision Loss

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of sudden vision loss. For example, vision loss due to problems with the eye may be treated with eye drops, medications or surgery.

If inflammation, such as choroid inflammation, is the cause of vision loss, a corticosteroid drug will be used as part of the treatment.