Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for sudden severe loss of vision, whether or not you recently had ophthalmoscopy.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent eye care after dilation if you develop:
Significant eye pain or increasing redness
Persistent blurred vision with headache, nausea, or vomiting
Coloured rings or halos around lights
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine advice, contact the healthcare team if blurred vision or light sensitivity lasts longer than the timeframe they gave you, or if mild irritation does not settle.
Also contact them if you have questions about results or follow-up arrangements.
These symptoms are not expected effects of a routine examination.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ophthalmoscopy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.