Dimmed and then pixelated vision

[BetsyW]

I have now had about 5 episodes of first dimmed vision (at first I think something happens to the lights or electric, like a brown out), and then I end up with pixelated vision for about 1 1/2 hrs.  The pixelated vision is like a digital photo that has been blown up too big and the pixels are like little blocks of color, and my vision ends up like a Picasso painting - it's all put together in the wrong order.  The first time it happened when I looked at someone their ears and nose would be detacted and be in the wrong place.  The next time it happened (a couple of months later), it was pixelated and in the wrong order, and I could make out faces - but the middle of peoples faces was blank like someone erased the features.  The last time was before Christmas and I also ended up with vertigo that started simultaneously (I have never experienced vertigo before) - the vision issue lasted about 1 1/2 hrs. again, but the vertigo lasted 8 weeks and was severe enough that I couldn't work and in fact, could hardly walk.  I had an MRI that was negative.  I've been told it's concerning, but no ideas on what the problem is.

[BetsyW]

I am assuming that the EEG would need to be done while it was happening?  Thank you for you comments.

Betsy W

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Have you had an EEG.  This could be a seizure disorder.  See a neuro-ophthalmologist.

Dr. O.