Should I Mention My Eye Going Blind at My Next Appointment?
I’m a 24-year-old female, standing at 5'5" and weighing 128 pounds, and I’m not currently on any medications. Recently, something rather alarming happened with my left eye: it suddenly lost vision for less than a minute. It was genuinely unsettling, but because it lasted such a short period, I'm uncertain whether this is something that can happen occasionally or if it would be viewed as trivial to talk about. My annual eye exam is typically scheduled for June, and I worry that discussing an incident from months ago might seem odd if it turns out to be minor. Nonetheless, I would much prefer for this situation not to occur again!
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 7:00:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important to address any unusual changes in your vision, including the incident you experienced with your left eye. While it only lasted a short time, sudden vision loss can indicate underlying issues that require attention, and it's always better to be cautious when it comes to eye health.
Explanation:
Temporary vision loss can be caused by various factors, including:
- Ocular Migraines: These can result in brief episodes of vision loss or disturbances.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Sometimes referred to as a "mini-stroke," this can cause temporary vision changes due to reduced blood flow.
- Retinal Issues: Conditions affecting the retina could also cause sudden vision loss.
Next Steps:
-
Document Your Experience: Write down exactly what happened, including any other symptoms you had (like numbness or tingling) and when the incident occurred. This can help you communicate more clearly with your eye doctor.
-
Prepare to Discuss at Your Next Appointment: Definitely bring this up during your annual eye exam. It's not trivial—it’s an important symptom that deserves to be discussed. Your eye doctor can perform tests to ensure there’s no serious underlying condition.
-
Monitor for Recurrence: Keep an eye on any future episodes. If you experience another sudden vision loss, or if you notice other concerning symptoms (such as headaches, changes in speech, or weakness), it would be advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than waiting for your scheduled appointment.
Remember, your health and comfort are the priority, so discussing this with your doctor is very important. You're doing the right thing by considering bringing it up!
Related Questions
Seeking Answers for Unusual Stool Appearance
A 41-year-old woman, who has been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and takes Synthroid along with a daily dose of vitamin B12 and a weekly intake of vitamin D, is contemplating visiting a gastroenterologist. She often experiences bloating, particularly after consuming raw vegetables and green foods. Recently, she noticed a strange, string-like substance in her stool, which has left her feeling alarmed and anxious. She would greatly appreciate any guidance or insight on this matter.
17-Year-Old Female Experiencing Chronic Acne Scarring on Back and Arms Despite Prescription Remedies
Age: 17 Gender: Female Country of residence: United Kingdom Skin type: Dark / Black Medical background: No significant health issues Medications: Previously utilized azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide Timeframe: Many months to years following acne resolution Greetings, I am a 17-year-old girl dealing with long-lasting scars on my back and upper arms from acne, which have not improved even after following prescribed treatments. In the past, I experienced acne primarily on my upper back, shoulders, and arms. While the active breakouts have largely ceased, I am left with noticeable dark spots and irregular skin texture. The scars I have include: • Dark brown hyperpigmentation • Certain areas appear slightly sunken • Uneven or coarse surface • No raised or keloid scars present My GP prescribed azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide, which I applied regularly. Unfortunately, the azelaic acid did not significantly lighten the scars and seemed inadequate for the pigmentation level. Although benzoyl peroxide was effective against my active acne, it did not enhance the appearance of the scarring. The marks have been present for a considerable time and are quite stark against my skin tone. I do my best to avoid picking at my skin and maintain proper hygiene, yet the scars aren’t diminishing on their own, which is negatively impacting my self-esteem—especially when I wear sleeveless or backless outfits. Currently, I'm exploring the possibility of using retinoids like adapalene or tretinoin. However, I’m uncertain if these would be suitable or effective for treating scarring on my back and arms, particularly with my darker skin type. I would like guidance on the following questions: • Does this seem to be primarily post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, atrophic acne scars, or possibly a combination of both? • Is azelaic acid effective for this type of scarring, or are more potent treatments generally required? • Are topical retinoids such as adapalene or tretinoin advisable for this sort of scarring? • What treatments are typically recommended for acne scars on the back and arms in individuals with darker skin tones? • Should I insist on a referral to a dermatologist, or is it better to attempt specific topical therapies first? Any insights or recommendations you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
Persistent Itching and Burning Around Neck and Scalp - Should I Keep Using Cephalexin?
Greetings, I’m a 35-year-old female. I recently developed a rash that began on the back of my neck and subsequently spread to my ears. After consulting with my physician, I was prescribed ketoconazole shampoo to address a suspected fungal rash. Despite using it diligently for four days, the condition actually aggravated, affecting my ears, the back of my neck, and my scalp more significantly. Seeking further assistance, I visited an urgent care facility where the medical staff suggested that I might be experiencing bacterial folliculitis. As a result, they prescribed cephalexin, which I am to take at a dosage of 500mg three times daily for a week. I took my first dose yesterday, yet the intense itching and burning sensations persist without improvement. Is it advisable for me to continue the medication? How long does it typically take to see improvement? Is it common to experience these symptoms alongside bacterial folliculitis? I appreciate your time and any guidance you can provide on this matter!
Concerns About Hearing Loss After Extended Earphone Use
For the past two and a half years, I have primarily relied on in-ear earphones, with the right one typically experiencing less usage—mostly for short videos or brief instances. Recently, during a singing session, I noticed something unusual. I covered one ear to monitor my pitch, and I was surprised to find that my hearing felt unclear and somewhat muffled. This was an experience I hadn’t recognized before. After conducting a few tests by alternately covering each ear, I discovered that my left ear can hear clearly and accurately, while my right ear perceives sounds as muffled, as if there’s a barrier in front of the speaker. I’m seeking advice as a 17-year-old student from Pune, India, with financial constraints that prevent me from adding stress to my parents. I’m deeply concerned whether this issue could be permanent, and if there’s any possibility of recovery. Although I can still hear sounds from my right ear when they are very close, I am unsure of the next steps. I have made the decision to discontinue using earphones starting today, but I’m wondering what additional measures I should take. Would it be advisable to pursue an audiometry test or consult an audiologist for a professional evaluation?
Dealing with Possible Epididymitis
A male, aged 40, standing at 5'9" and weighing 10.5 stone, presents a health concern. He has a history of smoking but refrains from alcohol consumption. For several years, I've grappled with a weakened bladder. However, over the last year or two, I've been experiencing intense discomfort in my right testicle. Initially, I thought I discerned a lump, prompting me to reach out to a physician. Unfortunately, the advice I received was limited; the doctor recommended an STI screening without conducting any examinations. I complied with the test, which returned negative results. Although the pain subsided briefly, it has now returned with greater intensity. I have undergone blood tests focusing on kidney, bladder, and prostate functions, all of which yielded normal results. Now, the medical team is leaning towards a diagnosis of epididymitis. The pain is excruciating and difficult to endure. I’ve scheduled an appointment for a prostate and testicular examination, which may lead to an ultrasound scan or possibly a urethral procedure to eliminate any serious underlying issues. The thought of the forthcoming examination fills me with anxiety, as I'm certain it will be painful. I'm curious if anyone has experienced epididymitis and what outcomes you faced, including any surgical interventions that may have been necessary.