OPTICAL PRISM | VISION & VOICE
Warning signs it ’ s time to see an ECP
“ It is important to be attuned to our bodies , as they may be trying to tell us more than meets the eye . For this reason we should be cognizant of sudden changes in our vision , such as complete or partial loss of vision , blurriness or tunnel vision . This is most important if an individual has a personal or family history of eye disease such as diabetic retinopathy , macular degeneration or glaucoma . Similarly , progressive changes such as headaches , eye pain and altered appearance of the eye ( s ) should also be consulted with an eye care professional .”
CLAUDIA ROJAS , licensed eyeglass , contact lens & refracting optician in B . C ., and Opticians Association of Canada board member .
“ Regular comprehensive eye exams are the best way to ensure optimum vision and eye health . However , new signs and symptoms can occur in-between visits and sometimes these can indicate that there is a potentially vision-threatening condition requiring immediate treatment , especially if it occurs suddenly . Some warning signs / symptoms requiring the prompt attention of an optometrist include the following : decreased vision in one or both eyes ; new floaters and / or flashing lights ; a painful or irritated red eye ; and double vision .”
DR . ANGELA YOON , Member of the Ontario Association of Optometrists .
“ The sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes or changes in your vision including flashes of light , wavy or jagged lines , blurry faces and double vision , among other symptoms , could indicate a sight-threatening eye condition ; these symptoms require urgent care .”
DR . ANDRE STANBERRY , University of Waterloo
8 OPTICAL PRISM | November 2020