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  • Signs You May Need an Eye Exam Right Away

    Published Oct. 27, 2015

    More than 3.4 million Americans aged 40 years and older are blind or are visually impaired, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s why regular comprehensive eye exams are so important — they can be particularly helpful in detecting diseases that have no or few symptoms, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

    However, in some cases, many people experience symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

    The following are just some of the signs for serious eye disease that may require treatment right away to avoid vision loss or eye damage.

    If you have any of these symptoms, see an ophthalmologist right away.

    • Bulging of one or both eyes
    • Dark curtain or veil that blocks your vision
    • Decreased vision, even if temporary
    • Double vision
    • Excess tearing
    • Injury to eye
    • Loss of peripheral (side) vision
    • Pain in the eye
    • Unusual or persistent redness

    To find an ophthalmologist near you, use our Find an Ophthalmologist search tool.