Treatment:

Treatment depends on the severity of the blockage. If more than 70% of the carotid artery appears blocked, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the blockage. The decision to do surgery is also based on your overall health. See: Carotid artery surgery

Other treatments include:

• Balloon angioplasty
• Stenting

Both techniques are used to open up the area of the carotid artery that is blocked by plaque. These methods are promising, especially for patients who are not well enough to undergo major surgery.

If you are not a candidate for surgery, treatment with aspirin or other blood thinners may be necessary.

Expectations (prognosis):

Amaurosis fugax may be a sign of impending stroke. The attack itself usually does not result in permanent disability.

Complications:

Although this condition does not result in any permanent damage, it is a sign of atherosclerotic disease and means you have 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.