Sudden Vision Loss
Call Now for Same-Day Assessment
If you have experienced a sudden change in vision — sudden 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 after hours, present to Sydney Eye Hospital Emergency, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney. If you have neurological symptoms alongside vision loss — weakness, numbness, 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 vision loss can result from conditions such as retinal detachment, retinal vein occlusion, wet macular degeneration, vitreous haemorrhage related to diabetic eye disease, or optic nerve disease, amongst other causes. The purpose of urgent assessment is to determine the cause and institute treatment as soon as possible when needed.
What Happens When You Come In
You'll have a thorough examination with any imaging or testing needed to get to the bottom of it. If treatment is required, it can begin immediately.
Call (02) 8544 0719 to arrange urgent assessment.