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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Both Eyes Going Blind For Few Minutes On Random Basis. What Could Be The Cause?

Hi from time to time i have gone blind in my one eye. It has also happened in the other eye at very random times. Sometimes it happens over a three week period and other times only once every few years. Its just like a black cover that slowly covers my eye but only lasts for a minute or so, although it is very frightening. Can you please help tell me what the cause is. I am a very uptight person who has suffered panic attacks. Many thanks. Lyn
Sat, 7 Jul 2012
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Ophthalmologist,  's  Response
Hi Lynbauer,
Your symptom is suggestive of TIA( transient ischaemia attack) /Amaurosis fugax?

It is due to temporary loss of blood flow in the retinal blood vessels due to the embolus( from Carotid artery)blocking it. This is very common in Carotid artery disease ( atherosclerosis)with a high risk if you are a Diabetic or Hypertensive or Having high Cholesterol .

The first thing you have to do is
-to get an ophthalmologist opinion to confirm the diagnosis and
- a Cardiologist opinion who will require Other investigations (ECG , ECHO and blood investigations along with a MRA to find out the blockage) and to start you on treatment accordingly.

Do not panic. This is a diagnosis based on your description of your symptoms provided. A direct retinal examination is required to confirm this.

So consult at the earliest to avoid recurrent episodes which may permanently bother your vision.
Take care and let us know after your direct examination.
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Both Eyes Going Blind For Few Minutes On Random Basis. What Could Be The Cause?

Hi Lynbauer, Your symptom is suggestive of TIA( transient ischaemia attack) /Amaurosis fugax? It is due to temporary loss of blood flow in the retinal blood vessels due to the embolus( from Carotid artery)blocking it. This is very common in Carotid artery disease ( atherosclerosis)with a high risk if you are a Diabetic or Hypertensive or Having high Cholesterol . The first thing you have to do is -to get an ophthalmologist opinion to confirm the diagnosis and - a Cardiologist opinion who will require Other investigations (ECG , ECHO and blood investigations along with a MRA to find out the blockage) and to start you on treatment accordingly. Do not panic. This is a diagnosis based on your description of your symptoms provided. A direct retinal examination is required to confirm this. So consult at the earliest to avoid recurrent episodes which may permanently bother your vision. Take care and let us know after your direct examination.