The eyes are delicate organs that we wholly rely on for our sense of sight. While occasional eye discomfort from a stray eyelash or hay fever is common, certain symptoms should never be ignored.
If you experience any of these warning signs, contact your Tampa ophthalmologist immediately:
Sudden Vision Loss, Distortion, or Blurriness
If your vision suddenly becomes worse, distorted, or blurry, call your eye doctor right away. This can indicate a serious eye condition, such as angle-closure glaucoma, detached retina, corneal infection, macular edema, or wet macular degeneration. These conditions require immediate care to prevent permanent vision loss, so don’t delay in seeking medical attention.
Sudden Increase in Floaters with Flashes
Occasional floaters (spots and shadows in your vision) and flashes are normal, especially with older age. However, if you suddenly notice an increase in the severity and/or frequency of floaters, especially with flashes, you should talk to your eye doctor. This can be a sign of a serious eye condition, like a detached or torn retina.
Inflammation
Mild redness from staying up late or Tampa’s high pollen counts isn’t a major cause for concern. However, persistent eye redness and swelling can point to an infection or injury that needs prompt medical attention.
If you experience eye swelling that doesn’t go away on its own within a day or two or is accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, fever, or discharge, contact your eye doctor right away.
Persistent Eye Pain
When eye pain sticks around for longer than a few hours, is severe, or comes with other symptoms (including vision changes, headaches, nausea, vomiting, halos around lights, or eye swelling) it warrants a visit to your eye doctor in Tampa Bay. Your doctor can rule out injuries and conditions that would require further treatment.
If you’re concerned about any eye symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact The Eye Clinic of Florida for a prompt evaluation.