A total loss of vision is a critical problem whether a person is pregnant or not, but may be related to some dangerous pregnancy complications. Women who experience a total loss of vision during pregnancy should call their healthcare provider immediately.
What causes it?
Loss of vision can be a symptom of preeclampsia and eclampsia, which are pregnancy conditions characterized by high blood pressure and protein in urine. They can lead to seizures, organ failure, and an elevated risk of serious complications in the fetus.
Loss of vision in association with preeclampsia can also be a symptom of HELLP syndrome.
Tips?
If you experience a loss of vision, contact your healthcare provider right away, or head to the emergency room. Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with preeclampsia, seek immediate medical care if you experience total loss of vision.
Not all loss of vision during pregnancy is associated with preeclampsia or even with pregnancy. If you experience loss of vision that’s found not to be related to preeclampsia, your healthcare provider may refer you to an optometrist for evaluation.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Preeclampsia.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, July 3 2014. Web.
- Jean Shaw. “Treating Visual Loss During Pregnancy.” American Academy of Ophthalmology. American Academy of Ophthalmology, October 2013. Web.
- Sarah Welch. “HELLP Sudden Loss of Vision During Pregnancy.” American Academy of Optometry. American Academy of Optometry, 2010. Web.
