Sudden Vision Loss
Call Now for Same-Day Assessment
If you have experienced a sudden change in vision, whether that is loss of vision in one or both eyes, a shadow or curtain, flashes and floaters, or distortion of your central vision, call (02) 8544 0719 now. We will see you the same day or next day.
If you have neurological symptoms alongside vision loss, such as weakness, numbness or slurred speech, call 000 or attend your local emergency department.
Why Sudden Vision Loss Needs Prompt Assessment
A rapid change in vision, particularly in one eye, may indicate a problem with the retina, the macula, or the blood supply to the eye. In many of these conditions, early diagnosis and treatment can make a real difference to the outcome.
Even if your vision partially recovers on its own, assessment is still important. Some causes of transient vision loss are warning events that need investigation.
What Might Be Causing It
Sudden loss of vision is very rarely a minor problem. The causes include a blocked artery or vein in the retina, a retinal detachment, bleeding into the vitreous from diabetic eye disease, wet macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion and giant cell arteritis, amongst others, and most of them require treatment. Where there is also pain, redness and haloes around lights, acute angle-closure glaucoma needs to be excluded.
What you noticed is useful information, but it is not something to work out for yourself. The patterns overlap and the serious causes are not always the most dramatic. Establishing which it is requires a full assessment.
What Happens When You Come In
You'll have a full assessment: your history, a thorough examination, and any imaging or testing needed to get to the bottom of it. If treatment is required, it can begin immediately.