Darkened vision is a more pronounced reduction in light perception, sometimes like wearing very dark glasses. It may be transient or persistent.
Serious Causes
Central retinal artery occlusion, severe retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, and optic neuritis can all cause sudden darkening in one eye. Bilateral darkening with neurological symptoms might signal stroke, pituitary apoplexy, or other intracranial events.
- Symptoms often appear abruptly and may be painless
- A “black curtain” suggests arterial occlusion or detachment
- Systemic vascular risk factors are frequently present
- Transient darkening with postural change can reflect systemic hypotension
Emergency Response
Any sudden unexplained darkening of vision warrants immediate emergency assessment, often via stroke pathways. Time‑critical interventions may protect both sight and life.
- Documenting exact onset time is helpful for acute management
- Long-term care focuses on preventing further ocular or cerebral events
- Visual rehabilitation supports adaptation where recovery is incomplete
- Prompt communication between eye and medical teams is crucial
