Experiencing tunnel vision can be alarming. While occasional, brief episodes may not always signal a serious condition, persistent tunnel vision can indicate underlying eye problems that require immediate attention. Understanding the potential causes and scheduling a comprehensive evaluation with an eye doctor in Blaine, MN is the best way to protect your vision and overall eye health.

What Causes Tunnel Vision?

Tunnel vision can develop gradually or appear suddenly depending on the cause. Some common factors include:

•           Glaucoma: One of the leading causes of permanent tunnel vision. This condition damages the optic nerve over time due to increased eye pressure.

•           Retinitis Pigmentosa: A group of genetic disorders that affect the retina, leading to a gradual loss of peripheral vision.

•           Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with multiple sclerosis, can lead to temporary or permanent vision changes.

•           Retinal Detachment or Damage: A detached retina can cause shadows or narrowing of the visual field and requires emergency medical attention.

If you notice tunnel vision that doesn’t resolve quickly, schedule a medical eye exam in Blaine right away to determine the cause and prevent further damage.

When to Seek Immediate Help

If you experience a sudden loss of peripheral vision, flashing lights, or dark shadows in your field of view, it’s important to seek urgent care. These symptoms may signal retinal detachment or other serious conditions that need prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

What to Expect During Your Eye Exam

At Complete Eyecare, we use advanced technology to assess your vision and eye health thoroughly. During your eye exam, our optometrist will discuss your symptoms and perform a series of diagnostic tests, which may include:

•           Humphrey Visual Field Test: This test measures your central and peripheral vision to detect blind spots or narrowing of your visual field.

•           Optomap Retinal Imaging: A widefield retinal image that allows us to examine the back of your eye without dilation, helping detect early signs of disease.

•           Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed cross-sectional images of your retina and optic nerve, helping diagnose glaucoma, macular degeneration, and more.

These tests provide a comprehensive look at your eye health, helping your doctor determine the cause of tunnel vision and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Schedule Your Medical Eye Exam in Blaine Today

Tunnel vision is not something to ignore. Whether it’s a temporary episode or a persistent symptom, identifying the underlying cause early is key to protecting your eyesight. Our optometrist offers advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care to help safeguard your vision and overall eye health.
 

If you’re experiencing tunnel vision or loss of peripheral sight, contact Complete Eyecare to get a clear picture of your eye health and receive the expert care. Visit our office in Blaine, Minnesota, or call (763) 220-2602 to book an appointment today.