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Temporary Vision Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do

Temporary vision loss can be a frightening experience, but it's not always a sign of a serious problem. In some cases, however, it can indicate a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding the possible causes and knowing when to seek help can protect your vision and your overall health.

Sudden Total or Near-Total Vision Loss

If you experience a sudden, complete or nearly complete loss of vision, it's a medical emergency. Call 911 right away, as this may be a sign of a serious condition such as:

  • Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) or branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO): These occur when a blood clot blocks the blood supply to your retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. Without prompt treatment, permanent vision loss can occur.

  • Stroke or heart attack: The same factors that can cause a blood clot in your eye, such as plaque buildup in your arteries, can also lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Treatment for sudden vision loss may include medications to break up the clot or a procedure called angioplasty to reopen the blocked blood vessel. Your doctor will also work with you to reduce your risk of future vision problems, strokes, and heart attacks.

Temporary, Partial Vision Loss

If you experience temporary or partial vision loss, it's still important to seek medical care right away. While less urgent than total vision loss, these symptoms can still indicate a serious problem. Common causes include:

Migraines

Migraines are the most common cause of temporary, partial vision loss. During a migraine, you may see flashing lights, shimmering spots, or blind spots in both eyes (migraine with aura) or in one eye (retinal migraine). These visual disturbances typically last 10 to 30 minutes and may occur before or during a headache.

Retinal Vasospasm

A retinal vasospasm occurs when a blood vessel in your retina narrows, reducing blood flow and causing temporary vision loss in one eye. Various conditions can trigger a vasospasm, including migraines, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. Treatment may include aspirin or calcium-channel blockers, as well as managing the underlying cause.

Closed-Angle Glaucoma

Closed-angle glaucoma is a condition in which the iris bulges, preventing proper fluid drainage and increasing pressure in the eye. Symptoms include eye discomfort, nausea, short-term blurred vision, halos, and blindness in one eye. Prompt treatment with eye drops, oral medications, or surgery is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.

Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis is an uncommon but serious cause of vision loss in people over 50. It causes inflammation in the arteries, particularly those in the head, leading to symptoms such as head pain, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, fever, fatigue, and vision loss (usually in one eye). Treatment typically involves corticosteroids or tocilizumab to prevent permanent blindness.

Rare Causes of Temporary Vision Loss

In some cases, temporary vision loss may be caused by rare conditions such as:

  • Retinal vein occlusion

  • Epileptic seizures affecting the occipital lobe

  • Papilledema (swelling of the optic nerve due to increased pressure in the brain)

  • Uhthoff phenomenon (vision loss in people with multiple sclerosis due to increased body temperature)

If you experience temporary vision loss, it's essential to seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. By taking prompt action and working with your healthcare team, you can protect your vision and maintain your overall health.

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