Summary about Disease
Amaurosis fugax is a temporary loss of vision in one eye due to a lack of blood flow to the retina. It is often described as a curtain or shade coming down over the eye, affecting the field of vision. It is a warning sign that there could be a blockage in an artery leading to the eye or brain, and therefore requires immediate medical attention to prevent stroke or other serious complications.
Symptoms
Sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye.
Vision loss is described as a curtain, shade, or shutter coming down or across the field of vision.
Vision typically returns to normal within a few minutes to an hour.
In some cases, vision may appear blurred or dim.
The eye vision loss happens generally quickly.
Causes
Atherosclerosis: The most common cause is the buildup of plaque (fatty deposits) in the carotid artery (the major artery in the neck that supplies blood to the brain and eye). These plaques can break off and travel to smaller arteries in the eye, blocking blood flow to the retina.
Blood clots: Clots from the heart or other parts of the body can also travel to the retinal artery.
Arteritis: Inflammation of the arteries (e.g., giant cell arteritis) can narrow the arteries supplying blood to the eye.
Vasospasm: Rare spasms of the retinal arteries.
Other rare causes: Blood disorders, tumors compressing the optic nerve, or certain medications.
Medicine Used
The treatment for amaurosis fugax focuses on addressing the underlying cause and preventing future episodes or stroke. Medications may include:
Antiplatelet drugs: Aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), or ticagrelor (Brilinta) to prevent blood clots from forming.
Anticoagulants: Warfarin (Coumadin) or newer anticoagulants like rivaroxaban (Xarelto) or apixaban (Eliquis) if a blood clot is the cause.
Statins: To lower cholesterol levels and stabilize plaque in the arteries.
Medications for Giant Cell Arteritis: Corticosteroids such as prednisone are used to reduce artery inflammation. Important Note: Medication should only be taken under the direction of a medical professional.
Is Communicable
No, amaurosis fugax is not communicable or contagious. It is caused by underlying medical conditions affecting blood flow and is not an infectious disease.
Precautions
Seek immediate medical attention: If you experience sudden vision loss, even if it resolves quickly, see a doctor immediately.
Manage risk factors: Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
Follow doctor's recommendations: Adhere to prescribed medications and follow-up appointments.
How long does an outbreak last?
An "outbreak" is not the correct term for amaurosis fugax. Each episode of vision loss typically lasts only a few seconds to a few minutes, rarely longer than an hour. The duration is usually short because the blockage is temporary. The underlying cause may require ongoing management to prevent future episodes.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Medical history and physical exam: Including a neurological examination.
Ophthalmoscopic exam: To examine the retina and blood vessels in the eye.
Carotid ultrasound: To assess blood flow in the carotid arteries.
CT angiography (CTA) or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): To visualize the blood vessels in the neck and brain.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check for heart problems.
Blood tests: To check for cholesterol levels, blood clotting disorders, and inflammatory markers.
Timeline of Symptoms
Sudden onset: Vision loss occurs abruptly.
Short duration: Each episode typically lasts for seconds or minutes (usually less than 1 hour).
Complete resolution: Vision returns to normal after the episode.
Recurrence: Episodes may recur until the underlying cause is treated.
Important Considerations
Amaurosis fugax is a warning sign for a potentially serious underlying condition, most notably increased risk of stroke.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent stroke or other vascular events.
Lifestyle modifications and medication adherence are essential for long-term management.
Regular follow-up with a doctor is necessary to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Patients should be educated on stroke symptoms and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if they experience any stroke symptoms.