Signs of Sight Loss

Your vision is important. Through sight, we are able to drive and easily navigate public transportation, perform most jobs, pursue leisure activities, appreciate the beauty of nature, and gaze upon our spouse and children. Knowing the signs that your vision may be fading is important for knowing when you need to call us, your ophthalmologist in Chapel Hill, for early diagnosis and treatment.

Vision Changes

Any changes in vision should be investigated as soon as possible. These changes include:

• Blurred vision
• Double vision
• Distortions in lines or edges
• Difficulty focusing on objects near or far
• Trouble adjusting to dark rooms
• The onset of floaters or spots in your line of view
• Sudden loss of vision in one eye or of peripheral vision
• Vision blotted out by a curtain-like substance
• Halos or rainbows around light or flashes of light or black spots

Injury, Discomfort, Or Pain

If you injure your eye, you should see an ophthalmologist right away to prevent sight loss. Pain is a warning sign that shouldn't be ignored. Types of pain to pay attention to include:

• Recurrent pain in or around eyes
• Persistent discomfort in eyes, especially if it occurs just after performing an activity in which a particle might have entered your eye
• Dry eyes with itching and burning
• Sudden eye pain, especially if accompanied by redness and nausea
• Discomfort in wearing contact lenses

Changes In The Appearance Of The Eye

If your eye changes appearance, your vision also may be changing. Changes that warrant eye exams include:

• Red-rimmed or swollen lids
• Red eye or red eyes.
• Change in the color of the iris

Preventing Sight Loss

Many instances of vision loss can be or could have been prevented. Routine eye exams and special eye exams any time you experience one of the above symptoms are key.

Contact Chapel Hill Ophthalmology

Call 919-942-8701 to make an appointment. We are your ophthalmologist in Chapel Hill.