Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following symptoms requires prompt attention?

1. Diplopia

2. Halos around lights

3. Pain in the eye

4. Sudden loss of vision

The correct answer is: Sudden loss of vision

Sudden loss of vision is a symptom that requires immediate attention due to the potential for serious underlying conditions that could lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed promptly. Conditions such as retinal detachment, central retinal artery occlusion, or a stroke affecting the visual pathways can manifest as sudden vision loss. These are medical emergencies that necessitate urgent evaluation and intervention by an ophthalmologist or other qualified healthcare professional to prevent permanent damage. While diplopia, halos around lights, and eye pain may indicate significant issues that warrant further investigation, they typically do not represent the same immediate threat to vision that sudden loss of vision does. Each of those symptoms can point to potentially serious conditions as well but usually allow for a slightly less urgent response compared to the critical nature of sudden vision loss.