What to do if…
you have sudden loss of vision in one eye or a curtain-like shadow

What to do now

1. Call 999 now if you suddenly cannot see from one eye, or if you have any stroke signs.
   Say: “I have sudden loss of vision in one eye.”
   Mention any face weakness, arm weakness, speech problems, confusion, sudden weakness or numbness, dizziness or falling, severe headache, or sickness.

2. If you can still see but have a new curtain-like shadow, new flashes or floaters, or sudden blurred vision, get urgent same-day eye assessment.
   Use NHS 111, an urgent opticians appointment, or an eye emergency department. If symptoms are getting worse, you cannot get urgent direction quickly, or you cannot travel safely, call 999.

3. Do not go alone if you can avoid it.
   Ask someone to drive you, stay with you, or meet you at A&E or urgent eye care. If no one is available and you cannot travel safely, call 999.

4. Make the space safer while help is being arranged.
   Sit down away from stairs, cooking, tools, or traffic. Keep your phone with you. If you are alone, unlock the door and message or call someone nearby.

5. Note the timing.
   Write down when the vision change started, when you were last seeing normally, and whether it is still there or came and went.

6. Write a short symptom note to show the clinician.
   Include:

   • which eye is affected
   • whether it is total vision loss, a curtain, a shadow, missing side vision, flashes, floaters, distortion, or blurred patches
   • whether there is pain, redness, recent eye injury, or recent eye surgery
   • any headache, jaw pain when chewing, scalp tenderness, weakness, numbness, speech problems, confusion, dizziness, or sickness

7. Bring essentials if they are easy to grab.
   Take your glasses, contact lens details if available, a list or photos of medicines, allergies, medical conditions, and a contact person’s details.