Sudden blurred vision can be life-threatening warning: CMC Vellore doctor shares indicators of major stroke risk

Many people tend to ignore fleeting health warnings, thinking they are minor or temporary. Brief episodes of blurred vision, sudden weakness, or slurred speech are often dismissed as inconsequential, yet they can indicate serious underlying problems. Experts caution that recognizing these early signs can prevent life-threatening conditions such as strokes.

When Minor Symptoms Signal Major Danger
Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a senior neurologist and CMC Vellore graduate shared a case in an X post. Mr. Ramesh (name changed), a 60-year-old man with decades of smoking and poorly controlled diabetes, experienced sudden episodes of blurred vision while reading. Each episode lasted just a minute or two, but they recurred multiple times a day. Assuming it was related to his blood sugar, he did not seek immediate attention.

His family suggested an eye check-up, suspecting an ocular problem. However, the tests showed his eyes were healthy, and he was referred to a neurologist. A carotid Doppler scan revealed an 80% blockage in his left carotid artery, a major vessel supplying blood to the brain. Dr. Kumar explained that these brief vision blackouts, called transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), serve as urgent warning signs for an impending stroke.


Immediate Intervention Prevented Crisis
Ramesh’s medical team acted quickly. He was started on dual antiplatelet therapy to prevent clots, high-dose statins to stabilize arterial plaques, and measures to control diabetes along with counselling to quit smoking. Additionally, early carotid stenting was recommended to restore blood flow and protect his brain.

The Blurred Vision That Could Have Been a Stroke

Mr. Ramesh (name changed), a 60-year-old gentleman, had lived most of his life the way many men of his generation did- working hard, smoking for decades, and not really worrying too much about his diabetes, which was never under…

— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) September 1, 2025

“Short-lived symptoms like blurred vision or temporary weakness should never be ignored,” Dr. Kumar emphasized. “They are often the body’s SOS signals. Prompt action can prevent permanent disability.”

Lessons for Everyone
Ramesh’s experience underscores a crucial health lesson: transient neurological symptoms are medical emergencies. Simple diagnostic tests, combined with lifestyle changes and early intervention, can significantly reduce stroke risk. Dr. Kumar also stresses the importance for young doctors to treat TIAs seriously, initiate preventive therapies, and consider early revascularization for high-risk patients.


For patients, controlling diabetes, quitting smoking, managing cholesterol, and monitoring blood pressure remain essential preventive measures. Ramesh’s brief vision episodes ultimately served as a lifesaving warning, highlighting the need to act before a major stroke occurs.


( Originally published on Sep 01, 2025 )