Q. What should I do if I experience sudden vision changes or eye discomfort?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Sudden vision changes or eye discomfort can be concerning, and it's essential to know how to respond. Here's what you should do:
1. Don't Panic, Stay Calm: First and foremost, try to stay calm. Sudden vision changes can be frightening, but panic won't help. Take a deep breath and focus on addressing the issue.
2. Check for Obvious Causes: Sometimes, simple factors like dry eyes, fatigue, or glare can cause temporary discomfort or vision changes. Make sure you're in a well-lit area, give your eyes a break, and consider using lubricating eye drops.
3. Remove Contact Lenses or Glasses: If you wear contact lenses or glasses, take them off and give your eyes a rest. Sometimes, foreign particles or dust can get trapped, causing irritation.
4. Blink and Lubricate: Blink your eyes several times to naturally moisten them. If dryness is the issue, use preservative-free artificial tears. Avoid redness-reducing drops unless advised by a doctor.
5. Check for Foreign Objects: Examine your eye in a well-lit mirror for any foreign objects or debris. If you see something, don't try to remove it with your fingers; seek professional help.
6. Rest Your Eyes: If you've been staring at a screen or reading for an extended period, give your eyes a break. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
7. Assess Other Symptoms: Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms. Are you experiencing pain, flashes of light, floaters, or loss of peripheral vision? These can indicate more serious issues and should be evaluated promptly.
8. Contact an Eye Care Professional: If your discomfort or vision changes persist or worsen, it's crucial to contact an eye care professional promptly. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions.
9. Avoid Self-Medication: Resist the urge to self-diagnose or self-medicate. Over-the-counter eye drops may not be suitable for your specific condition and could potentially worsen the problem.
10. Emergency Situations: If you experience sudden, severe eye pain, sudden loss of vision, or trauma to the eye, seek immediate medical attention. Don't wait; time is critical in such cases.
11. Follow Professional Advice: Once you've consulted with an eye care professional, follow their recommendations diligently. This may include medications, further tests, or lifestyle changes to prevent future issues.
Remember, your eyes are precious, and any changes or discomfort should not be ignored. Prompt action and professional guidance are key to preserving your eye health. It's always better to be safe and seek expert advice when in doubt. Your vision matters, so take good care of your eyes!