We also specialize in evaluating patients who have unexplained visual loss. Patients should first have the referral of their primary doctor, ophthalmologist, optometrist or neurologist. Headaches are only rarely caused by eye problems, even if the pain feels like it is coming from or behind the eye. This is similar to the occurrence of left arm pain in patients who experience a heart attack. Headache should be distinguished from true eye pain, which is usually localized to the surface of the eye, and is most commonly caused by dry eyes.
Visual loss occurs because of either optical or neural problems.
Researchers around the world, however, are working on many strategies to restore vision to patients who have suffered damage to the retina or optic nerve. To date none of the laboratory techniques have been successful in this quest. Yes, definitely you should be examined by an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Temporary loss of vision that persists for at least several minutes can be a sign of interruption of blood flow to the eye. Temporary visual loss can be followed by visual loss that is permanent.