Sudden loss of vision.

BACKGROUND

Sudden loss of vision is an ophthalmological emergency.

OBJECTIVE

This article explains how history and examination, particularly ophthalmoscopy, will greatly assist the general practitioner to diagnose the cause.

DISCUSSION: Vision loss may be transient or prolonged. It is important to consider whether the eye is painful or comfortable, inflamed or not. An accurate diagnosis will direct the emergency management, which frequently determines the prognosis for vision.