Treatment:

Treatment of amaurosis fugax depends on the severity of the blockage in the carotid artery. The goal of treatment is to prevent a stroke.

Your doctor may recommend:

• No treatment. You may only need regular check-ups to check the health of your carotid artery.
• Diet changes and medication to help lower your cholesterol and control your blood pressure.
• Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or other blood-thinning medications to lower your risk of stroke.

If a large part of the carotid artery appears blocked, surgery is done to remove the blockage. The decision to do surgery is also based on your overall health. See: Carotid endarterectomy

Expectations (prognosis):

Amaurosis fugax itself usually does not result in permanent disability. However, it means you have atherosclerosis and an increased risk for stroke.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if any loss of vision occurs. If symptoms last for longer than a few minutes, or if there are any other symptoms accompanying the visual loss, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.