Temporary blindness and ringing in ears

[missxtoxyou]

A couple of weeks ago, I awoke as normally to get ready for work.  As I reached the fridge to brag something to drink, my lower abdoman started to hurt.  I have Dysmenorrhea, so I braced myself and prepared for the worst.  Things were quite different this time.  First, I became dizzy and my ears started this very very high-pitched ringing/whining.  Then both eyes gradually blacked completely out.  I mean TOTAL and COMPLETE blindness of both eyes.  I didn't pass-out/faint or anything, but I did begin to panic.. so I called to my roommate.  She told me to sit/relax and breathe.  After a few minutes I could then subtly and gradually "see" differences in dept (i.e. I could "see" outlines of large objects), then "energy"/color (mainly red) started to filter in.  (Full-spectrum color followed soon after.)  It took a few moments extra for the ringing, abdominal pain, and dizzyness to subside.

However.. a few days prior to this happening, I did attend a concert.  And, I can't recall smelling anything out of the ordinary.

My roommate also said that this has happened before, but I would remember anything remotely similar.  I can recall nothing of the sort; although, I have experienced "head rushes" before (but, nothing of this severity).

Any ideas???

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

This is a potentially serious symptom that could represent major disease of the heart, brain or blood vessels. Even if you are young you need an appointment with an ophthalmologist (Eye MD find one at www.aao.org) AND a complete physical exam with special attention to the cardio-vascular and neurologic systems. See your Family MD or an Internist MD

JCH III MD

[missxtoxyou]

I recently went to an ophthalmologist to have an annual eye exam, and nothing abnormal appeared.  I am near-sighted and also have astigmatism (in both eyes, I believe).  Both my mom and aunt had Glaucoma (which required surgery in both cases); and there is a history of diabetes & HBP within my immediate family.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

In that case you need your family physician or an internist.

JCH III MD

[blueglass74]

Are you on any new prescription medications (last six months?) Some Birth Control (like the patch) can cause serious vision problems (such as flashing lights) which could lead to a stroke. You should get checked out (I am not a medical professional) but I read what the MD wrote and completely agree, it sounds really scary!

[missxtoxyou]

I was on anti-biotics for a while b/c of an ingrown hair, and checked myself into the ER twice last year b/c of my Dysmenorrhea (and received basic pain pills).  I've also been taking medication for my Perioral Dermatittis, but I can't remember the name off of the top of my head.