What are the symptoms of transient monocular blindness?

Generally, transient monocular blindness is a temporary vision loss phenomenon, with symptoms including floating dark shadows in front of the eyes, blurred vision, transient vision loss, visual field defects, dizziness, and others. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Floating dark shadows in front of the eyes

Transient metabolic abnormalities in the retina or vitreous may involve a small number of blood cells or exudates interfering with the normal transmission of light, causing patients to perceive dark shadows. Some patients may feel as if dark shadows are floating in front of their eyes, varying in shape—some appearing as small black spots, others as linear or filamentous shapes. These shadows move along with eye movements.

2. Blurred vision

Fluctuations in blood supply can impair the focusing and imaging functions of ocular refractive media and the retina. Light transmission becomes partially obstructed, leading to blurred vision before or after episodes of transient monocular blindness. Objects may appear with unclear outlines and blurred edges.

3. Transient vision loss

This mainly results from temporary abnormalities in blood circulation within the eye or brain, causing a brief insufficient blood supply to visual structures such as the retina. Visual signals cannot be transmitted normally, thus causing sudden blindness. Patients may suddenly experience complete vision loss, although this loss is temporary.

4. Visual field defects

Transient insufficient blood supply or blockage in the blood vessels supplying specific retinal areas may cause the corresponding retinal regions to malfunction, preventing the reception and transmission of visual information from those areas. As a result, some patients experience visual field defects during episodes of transient monocular blindness, meaning their normal visual field range is reduced.

5. Dizziness

Sudden interruption or abnormalities in visual input from the eyes can alter the signals received by the brain, affecting the body's sense of balance and spatial orientation. This may lead to dizziness or vertigo, with patients experiencing sensations of self or surrounding rotation and unsteadiness while standing.

In daily life, one should avoid prolonged continuous work or study, ensuring sufficient rest time to relieve physical and mental stress.