Causes and risk factors
Anything that causes blockage of the passage of light through the cornea, vitreous, or retina can result in blindness. Traumas, optic neuropathy, vitreous hemorrhage, occlusion of the retinal vein/retinal artery are common causes of sudden loss of vision. Underlying diseases such as diabetes and giant cell arteritis are associated with a higher risk of developing sudden loss of vision.
Less common causes include detachment of the retina, macular hole, eye infections, glaucoma, transient ischemic attack, and retinal hemorrhage.
Clinical presentation
The patient experiences unilateral or bilateral, partial or complete loss of vision. The loss of vision can be central or peripheral. The vision loss develops over a period of few minutes or few hours. Additional symptoms will depend upon the underlying cause. They include pain in the eye, blurring of vision and the presence of spots in the visual field.
The loss of vision may last temporarily – only for a few seconds, minutes, or hours. However, it may become permanent if not treated on time.
Investigations
A complete ophthalmic examination is performed. Depending upon the underlying cause, further laboratory or imaging studies are carried out.
Treatment
The treatment for sudden vision loss involves identifying and treating the underlying cause.
When to contact a doctor
Contact a doctor as soon as you experience partial or total loss of vision.
Systems involved
Ophthalmic, nervous
Organs involved
Eyes, nerves
