Shropshire woman praises optician who spotted rare disorder

Emma James was admitted to hospital in 2009 after suffering a miscarriage and began to notice severe deteriorated in her vision. Vivid black spots appeared in her vision and she found it almost impossible to read a book.

The 34-year-old also experienced a short episode when she lost her vision completely.

Doctors initially thought her symptoms were due to low iron levels as a result of her miscarriage.

But during a routine eye examination at her opticians, Specsavers in Bridgnorth, tests indicated she was suffering from a far more serious condition known as Hughes Syndrome.

She said: "It was while I was watching TV, everything suddenly went black for a few seconds.

"My vision returned and appeared normal but soon after I began to walk into objects and people, not realising they were there."

Martin Skehan, an optometrist at Specsavers, said he was immediately concerned after hearing Ms James describe her symptoms.

He carried out a full eye examination and discovered she had lost peripheral vision in both of her eyes and had swelling on the optic nerve.

She was referred to see her GP who said the disorder could have been the result of a stroke or a brain tumour.

After visiting the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford for further tests, doctors were unable to give Ms James a formal diagnosis or explanation.

She was referred to see a neurologist at Bridgnorth Hospital and underwent an MRI scan - but again the results were inconclusive.

Ms James returned to Specsavers and was seen by Teresa Hughes, store director and optometrist, who spotted a cataract developing in her left eye.

Two months later she underwent surgery to remove the cataract and, although the surgery was a success, she was still experiencing swirling "floaters" in her vision.

The condition was affecting her brain and, as a result, was specifically affecting her vision.

Ms James, who is now on medication to help stabilise her condition, said: "Specsavers were fantastic. Whenever I had a sudden deterioration in my vision, I would call the store and was able to see them immediately that day.

"I cannot thank them enough for their support through such a unnerving and frightful time.

"It has been a long journey in getting a diagnosis and thanks to the staff and optometrists, and the hospital staff, my vision was saved and hopefully I will not now develop dementia due to the condition.

"Life has changed so dramatically. I've had to declare my driving licence and I can no longer go out and about by myself.

"I have to wear glasses to improve what vision I have, but due to the snow vision, I constantly see floaters and movement even when my eyes are closed.

"Apart from ensuring people go for regular sight tests, I also believe all pregnant women should be tested for Hughes Syndrome, as it's one of the most common causes of strokes in young people and repetitive miscarriages."