The most common and early symptoms of papilledema typically begin with brief visual disturbances. These can manifest as blurred vision, double vision, seeing flashes of light, and temporary vision loss lasting a few seconds. Typically, these visual obscurations are recurrent episodes lasting less than 30 seconds, described as vision turning gray or black, sometimes like a curtain falling over the eyes. Symptoms usually affect both eyes simultaneously. These transient visual obscurations are often triggered by changes in position, such as suddenly standing up. Individuals with papilledema may also report seeing flashing lights, often in an arc shape. Over time, other visual changes can emerge, including an enlarged blind spot and a constricted visual field. Persistent intracranial pressure can cause these changes to last for minutes and, in some cases, become permanent.