In a quick-fire interview, the most common questions about sudden vision loss in one eye are answered by Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Nataliia Valeriivna Konovalova, Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Inflammatory and Post-Burn Eye Pathology of the SI "V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAMS of Ukraine."
Sudden vision loss in one eye is an alarming symptom that requires immediate consultation with an ophthalmologist. One of the most common causes of this condition is optic neuritis—an inflammatory condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
According to Professor Nataliia Konovalova, a sudden decrease in vision may also be associated with inflammatory processes affecting the membranes of the brain. This is why patients need to undergo a comprehensive examination to determine the cause of the condition.
The professor notes that optic neuritis frequently develops after viral infections. In particular, physicians observed a significant increase in such cases following the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, inflammation of the optic nerve may occur in association with tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, and other infectious diseases.
Optic neuritis is not always related solely to neurological disorders. Its development can be caused by both diseases of the nervous system and various infectious processes. This is precisely why diagnosis must be comprehensive and aimed at identifying the root cause of the condition.
To confirm the diagnosis, patients undergo assessment of visual acuity and visual fields, evaluation of optic nerve function, ophthalmoscopy, and other modern instrumental examinations. If retrobulbar optic neuritis is suspected, and there are as yet no visible changes to the optic disc, an MRI or CT scan of the brain and a consultation with a neurologist must be arranged.

On average, the course of treatment lasts about two weeks. However, recovery of visual function may take from three to six months. This is because partial optic nerve atrophy often develops following optic neuritis, requiring further treatment and ongoing follow-up.

Professor Natalia Konovalova emphasises the importance of seeking medical advice at an early stage.
She recommends that everyone periodically check the vision in each eye separately. If, when closing one eye, the image becomes less clear, or if there are gaps in the field of vision or other unusual changes, you should consult an ophthalmologist immediately. It is important to note that optic neuritis is not always accompanied by pain, so the absence of pain does not rule out a serious condition.
Specialists at the Filatov Institute emphasise that a preventive eye examination with an ophthalmologist is recommended for everyone at least once a year. Patients with eye diseases or neurological disorders should undergo follow-up examinations at least once every six months.
If any signs of vision deterioration or symptoms suggestive of optic neuritis occur, medical attention should be sought as soon as possible. Early diagnosis significantly improves the effectiveness of treatment and helps to preserve vision.
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