Sudden vision loss after repeated retching: a case of Valsalva retinopathy

Abstract

We report on a patient who developed unilateral retinal and vitreous hemorrhages after repeated retching and vomiting. A 22-year-old man of South Asian descent was seen at the Accident and Emergency Department, Queen Mary Hospital, for sudden loss of vision in his right eye. The episode was acute, painless and preceded by repeated retching and vomiting after a spicy curry meal. Examination revealed fresh intra- and pre-retinal hemorrhage involving the inferior macula. The condition resolved spontaneously with conservative measures and did not require specific treatment or intervention. Repeated vomiting as a result of a poorly tolerated spicy meal resulted in unilateral Valsalva retinopathy. This case report details the course of recovery and what patients and physicians should expect and rule out. It is important to reassure patients during this course that they will regain full visual function.