Sudden Loss of Peripheral Vision

What is it?

Sudden loss of peripheral vision is the inability to see objects in the sides or periphery of the visual field. This loss can be caused by various conditions, including retinal, nervous system, or vascular problems in the eye.

Possible Causes

• Glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure can lead to damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of peripheral vision.
• Migraine. During a migraine, peripheral vision disturbances, known as aura, can occur.
• Retinal disorders. Retinal diseases, such as detachment or degeneration, can impair peripheral vision.
• Stroke. Brain damage due to a stroke can affect the visual centers and cause loss of peripheral vision.
• Diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to peripheral vision loss.

Symptoms

• Sensation of losing vision on the sides.
• Difficulty perceiving objects on the periphery.
• Darkness or fog in the visual field.
• Headaches, especially with migraines.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Consultation with an ophthalmologist. It is important to visit a doctor for an eye exam and to measure intraocular pressure.
• Medical examinations. Tests such as visual field testing, MRI of the brain, or ultrasound of blood vessels may be conducted to identify the cause of vision loss.
• Treatment. Treatment depends on the cause of the loss of peripheral vision and may include medications, surgery, or treatment of the underlying condition.