DISTURBED / IMPAIRED VISION 101
What is the nature of your disturbed or impaired vision?
Sudden loss of all or part of the vision in one or both eyes
Blurred vision
Seeing flashing lights or floating spots
Double vision
None of the above
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW if you cannot identify a possible cause for your disturbed or impaired vision from this chart.
ACTION
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS
! You may have blockage of a blood vessel that supplies the brain or eye. Another possibility is a detached retina, which needs prompt treatment.
ACTION
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS
! This may be due to bleeding in the brain, such as with a stroke or subarachnoid hemorrhage( ruptured artery near the brain). Another possibility is a weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control the movement of the eyes, causing double vision.
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW You may have a migraine. However, the possibility of another disorder needs to be ruled out.
• Rest in a darkened quiet room until symptoms improve.
• If you also have a headache, take an analgesic such as acetaminophen.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you have had previous migraines.
• Avoid red wine, chocolate, and mature cheese – all possible migraine triggers.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS Your symptoms may be a side effect of the medication.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR OPHTHALMOLOGIST
You may be developing presbyopia( gradual loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on near objects).
Are you currently taking any medication?
Medication
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS if you cannot identify a possible cause for your disturbed or impaired vision from this chart.
No medication