Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

What is a common characteristic of symptoms warranting immediate examination?

1. Presence of faint lights

2. Headaches with no accompanying vision changes

3. Episodes of halos around lights accompanied by vision changes

4. Loss of appetite

The correct answer is: Episodes of halos around lights accompanied by vision changes

The presence of episodes of halos around lights accompanied by vision changes is a significant symptom that warrants immediate examination. Halos can indicate a potential issue with the cornea or lens, and when combined with vision changes, they may suggest conditions such as acute glaucoma or other ocular emergencies. These symptoms could point to an increase in intraocular pressure, which requires prompt assessment to prevent vision loss. In contrast, the other options do not typically signal an urgent need for an eye examination. The presence of faint lights might suggest a variety of issues but is not as immediately alarming without accompanying symptoms. Headaches can arise from numerous factors, and when they do not coincide with vision changes, they may not necessitate urgent evaluation. Loss of appetite is generally unrelated to immediate eye health concerns and typically warrants attention from a general health perspective rather than an ocular one.