General Medical Information

Transient Loss of Vision

Jean Edwards Holt

Transient loss of vision can be part of the aura of migraine or a consequence of chronic papilledema. Visual blackouts are common in vertebral-basilar insufficiency after at least 80% narrowing of this vascular system from atherosclerosis. These blackouts are ominous because repeated attacks often are not transient and can be permanent. Abnormalities in the carotid system can cause temporary, usually unilateral, loss of vision (amaurosis fugax). There may be associated cerebral symptoms and hemiparesis. Because 15% to 20% of these patients later have a stroke, they need a complete vascular evaluation.