Emergency
New floaters and flashes in China: Do I need to see an eye doctor today?
Seek a prompt eye examination for new or suddenly increasing floaters or flashes. Get immediate care if a curtain-like shadow appears or your vision suddenly declines.
Which changes need urgent assessment?
The UK NHS recommends urgent assessment for first-time or suddenly increasing floaters or flashes. A dark curtain or blurred vision is also a warning sign. In China, contact a local ophthalmology service that can examine the back of the eye. If a curtain appears or your vision drops suddenly, seek local emergency eye care. NHS guidance
How do I describe the change when I arrive?
Patient information from Beijing’s eye hospital advises assessment when floaters increase or vision becomes obscured or reduced. If you have had floaters before, tell the clinician what changed and when. Beijing Municipal Health Commission patient guide
| What you notice | What to do |
|---|---|
| Long-standing, unchanged floaters with no vision change | Tell your clinician how long they have been present and follow your existing eye-care plan |
| First-time or suddenly increased floaters, with flashes | Seek prompt ophthalmic assessment |
| A new curtain-like shadow or sudden loss of vision | Get immediate care and report the affected eye and time of onset |
What is the eye doctor checking for?
The Beijing patient guide discusses vitreous opacities, retinal tears and retinal detachment. Your clinician may dilate your pupils to examine the peripheral retina. At triage, report when the symptoms started, which eye is affected, whether you are very short-sighted and whether you recently had an eye injury or operation. Beijing patient guide
Frequently asked questions
There is no pain. Can I wait until I get home?
New or suddenly worsening floaters and flashes still need prompt assessment. Seek care where you are. Get immediate help for a shadow across your vision or sudden vision loss.
Need help?
Tell us about your situation and needs. Incomplete records are welcome.