HomeAnswersNeurologydecreased field of visionI have a headache and visual disturbances. Please help.

I have visual disturbances when I move my head. Kindly help.

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 30, 2018
Reviewed AtFebruary 17, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been having transient visual disturbances (looks like moving or static bubbles) around the periphery of my vision in my right eye that lasts a few seconds every time. The vision also sometimes grays out then comes back seconds later. This happens dozens of times a day, every day. Often they are caused when I stand up or move my head around. I first noticed the symptoms when I had a sinus infection and was on Doxycycline three months back. I had pain in my right eyebrow that went away after antibiotic use, but the visual issue stayed. I had an eye exam with an ophthalmologist who told me he did not see anything wrong and that it was ocular migraines. I have since had recurring headaches that are persistent, but the visual disturbance does not change whether or not I have a headache. I have an appointment with a neurologist in three weeks, but I am wondering if it is safe to wait that long. Ibuprofen helps with the headache and reduces visual disturbances. Currently, I am on Lexapro 10 mg.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms could be related to optic nerve damage or low blood pressure. As standing up triggers these symptoms, orthostatic hypotension cannot be excluded. Coming to this point, I would recommend measuring your blood pressure in sitting and standing up position. I think there is no need to go to the ER (emergency room). When consulting with a neurologist, I would recommend discussing the possibility of a brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to examine your brain and optic nerve. Other tests to consider would be: 1. A head-up tilt test for orthostatic hypotension. 2. Doppler ultrasound of the carotid arteries to examine the blood flow in them.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Neurology

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