Amaurosis Fugax is a strange sounding name for a temporary loss of vision in one eye. The vision loss is sudden and usually recovers over a period of minutes. It is painless and not associated with any other symptoms.
Causes of Temporary Blindness in One Eye
Temporary blindness occurs because the blood supply to the eye is reduced or temporarily blocked. It is a transient ischemic attack of the eye or TIA.
Common risk factors include:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
Temporary Blindness Linked to Silent Strokes
Recent studies have shown that 25% of people who experience Amaurosis Fugax have also had a silent stroke.
Even more alarming is that about 15% of people who experience a TIA will go on to have a stroke affecting the brain within the next three months, having the potential to cause paralysis or death. Fortunately with treatment, many of these strokes can be avoided.
Sudden Blindness is an Emergency!
The most important thing to remember is that sudden blindness is always an eye emergency! Therefore, make an appointment with your eye doctor if you ever experience Amaurosis Fugax.
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