Any vision loss can be scary. Sudden vision loss is even more frightening. There are really only a couple of “true” retinal eye emergencies. I’ve listed the “top ten,” remember that there are many ways to define an emergency. All involve loss of vision, or at least a change in vision, and that alone probably qualifies as an “emergency.” By the way, if you have sustained any of these symptoms, please call your doctor. This article, and web site, is not intended to replace medical advice.
So here goes; my “Top Ten” Retinal Emergencies;
10. Vitreous hemorrhage – the symptoms of a vitreous hemorrhage can range from the onset of sudden floaters to rather impressive loss of vision, depending upon the amount of bleeding into the vitreous.
9. Vascular Occlusions – either vein occlusions or artery occlusions. Patients experience sudden loss of vision.
8. Submacular Hemorrhage – sudden bleeding underneath the macula/retina. Causes a dark area in the vision. Usually the peripheral vision is normal.
7. “Wet” Macular Degeneration – rapidly (days to weeks) decreasing vision, distortion.
6. Uveitis/Iritis – this is inflammation inside the eye, not unlike arthritis. Patients may experience pain, sensitivity to light, decreased vision. Eye may turn red.
To Be Continued…
4 Comments
You have shown the need of communication between doctor and pateint and their relatives.
Dear Kuldip,
Thank you. Communication is so integral to a good patient/doctor/family relationship.
Randy
You have shown the need of communication between doctor and pateint and their relatives. Thanks for giving briefly about the disesases of the eye.
Good to receive such useful material about the eyes. thanks.