Obscurations
Obscurations
Visual obscurations are transient losses ("graying out") of vision lasting a few seconds, occurring in the context of raised intracranial pressure (ICP), and especially associated with activities known to elevate ICP (coughing, sneezing, bending down, straining at stool) and relieved by their cessation. These symptoms are thought to reflect critical compromise of optic nerve head perfusion and are invariably associated with the finding of papilledema. Obscurations mandate urgent investigation and treatment to prevent permanent visual loss. Transient visual obscurations may occasionally be due to optic disc drusen.
Cross References
