Sudden Vision Changes:When to Take Action

Retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye. It affects about 1 in 10,000 people annually, with higher risk in older adults and those with severe myopia.

Examples: Trauma, severe nearsightedness, or complications from eye surgery can lead to retinal detachment.

Symptoms:

• Sudden increase in floaters
• Flashes of light
• A curtain-like shadow moving across the field of vision
• Sudden vision loss in part of the visual field

Emergency: Immediate medical attention is crucial. See an eye doctor or go to the emergency room within 24 hours, as early treatment can prevent permanent vision loss.

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure. It affects about 3 million Americans, with many unaware they have the condition.

Examples: Open-angle glaucoma develops slowly over time, while angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly.

Symptoms:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision
• Eye pain and redness (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights

Emergency: For sudden onset of symptoms (acute angle-closure glaucoma), seek immediate medical attention within hours. For gradual symptoms, see an eye doctor within a week.

Cataracts involve the clouding of the eye's natural lens, leading to blurred vision. They affect more than half of all Americans by age 80.

Examples: Age-related cataracts are most common, but cataracts can also result from injury, certain medications, or medical conditions.

Symptoms:

• Gradual blurring of vision
• Increased glare sensitivity
• Difficulty with night vision
• Fading or yellowing of colors

Emergency: Cataracts typically develop slowly and are not considered an emergency. Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor within a month if you suspect cataracts.

Macular degeneration is a condition affecting the central part of the retina (macula), crucial for sharp, detailed vision. It's the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 in the developed world.

Examples: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can be dry (more common) or wet (more severe).

Symptoms:

• Blurred or distorted central vision
• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Need for brighter light when reading
• Decreased color intensity

Emergency: While not typically an emergency, sudden changes in vision should be evaluated by an eye doctor within a week, especially if you have known macular degeneration.

Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with autoimmune conditions. It affects about 5 in 100,000 people annually.

Examples: It can occur in isolation or be associated with multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica.

Symptoms:

• Sudden vision loss in one eye
• Pain with eye movement
• Loss of color vision
• Flashing lights when moving the eyes

Emergency: While not typically sight-threatening, optic neuritis should be evaluated by an eye doctor or neurologist within 24-48 hours of symptom onset.

Corneal abrasions are scratches on the eye's surface, while ulcers are open sores. Abrasions are common, affecting millions annually, while ulcers are less frequent but more severe.

Examples: Abrasions can result from foreign objects or contact lens wear; ulcers often stem from infections or severe dry eye.

Symptoms:

• Eye pain or a gritty feeling
• Redness and tearing
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision

Emergency: For suspected corneal ulcers, seek immediate care within 24 hours. For minor abrasions, see an eye doctor within 1-2 days if symptoms persist.

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It affects about 2 million people in the United States.

Examples: Uveitis can be caused by autoimmune disorders, infections, or occur idiopathically.

Symptoms:

• Eye redness and pain
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
• Floaters

Emergency: Uveitis can lead to vision loss if untreated. See an eye doctor within 24-48 hours of symptom onset.