5. Eye Movement Problems: An Underlying Threat
Eye movement problems, clinically known as ophthalmoplegia, are yet another significant symptom of CST. These typically manifest as a double vision (diplopia) or even a complete inability to move the eye in certain directions. This issue arises from the impact of the blood clot on the cranial nerves responsible for eye movement – the oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerves.
Diplopia is a particularly disorienting symptom. Patients report seeing two images of a single object, which may be horizontally, vertically, or diagonally displaced from each other. Moreover, the problem often worsens when the patient looks in the direction of the affected muscles.
The onset of ophthalmoplegia in CST is usually progressive. Starting off as slight discomfort or difficulty in eye movement, it may escalate to almost complete immobility if CST remains untreated.
In CST, these symptoms hold a distinctive trait. They typically affect one eye, aligning with the unilateral nature of most CST symptoms. Notably, diplopia and restricted eye movement, coupled with the previously outlined symptoms, can be a significant clue towards CST diagnosis. (5)
