Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

In the context of visual disturbances, which symptom is associated with immediate medical attention?

1. Blurry vision

2. Temporary blindness

3. Sudden onset of double vision

4. Flashes of light

The correct answer is: Sudden onset of double vision

The symptom that indicates an immediate need for medical attention is the sudden onset of double vision. This condition, known as diplopia, can suggest the presence of serious underlying issues, such as neurological problems, ocular muscle disorders, or vascular events like strokes. Since these conditions can lead to significant complications if not addressed promptly, experiencing sudden double vision warrants immediate evaluation by a medical professional. Other symptoms, while concerning, may not require the same level of urgent attention. Blurry vision can arise from various benign causes like eye strain or refractive errors. Temporary blindness may suggest a transient ischemic attack or another serious issue, but it is typically not as immediate a concern as sudden double vision, which can often indicate an acute problem that needs rapid investigation. Flashes of light can also be alarming and could indicate retinal issues, but again, sudden double vision is more critical in terms of immediate neurological or anatomical evaluation.