HomeAnswersOphthalmology (Eye Care)eye floatersHow soon should I see a doctor after visual disturbances?

I started seeing a transparent floater and light flashes. How long can I wait without consulting a doctor?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Nithila. A

Published At July 12, 2019
Reviewed AtOctober 9, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

About six hours ago, I started seeing a transparent floater which I had not seen before, and then three hours later, I started seeing light flashes at the edge of my visual field in my left eye. Can I wait for three more days to see my doctor?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If you have access to an ophthalmologist on this weekend, then get a thorough retinal evaluation with indentation done. The symptoms you are describing are consistent with posterior vitreous detachment, a process which by itself does not cause a decrease in vision. However, it can pull onto retina hence causing a retinal tear in the process. If that is present, it needs to be lasered within a day or two. If you do not have high myopia or have a family history of retinal detachment, then you are low-risk patient and can wait another two days if it is imperative.

The Probable causes

Physiological.

Investigations to be done

Peripheral retinal evaluation.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Bandivadekar Pooja Mohan
Dr. Bandivadekar Pooja Mohan

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

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