How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Blurred Vision - Triage

Audience: adult

Blurred vision can be caused by many different conditions, some of which require urgent medical attention. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider, especially when you prepare well for the visit. During a telemedicine appointment, you will be asked about your vision changes, other symptoms, and your medical history. You may also be guided through simple tests to assess your vision. However, some causes of blurred vision need immediate in-person care, such as sudden vision loss, eye pain, or trauma. Preparing for your telemedicine visit by gathering information about your symptoms and having a list of your medications can help your provider give the best advice. After the visit, you may be advised to monitor your symptoms, follow treatment recommendations, or seek urgent care if your condition worsens.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe eye pain or redness with blurred vision — get urgent in-person evaluation.
• Eye injury or trauma associated with blurred vision — go to emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild or gradual blurred vision.
• Review of medical history and symptoms related to vision changes.
• Guidance on monitoring symptoms and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency evaluation of sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
• Performing detailed eye exams requiring specialized equipment.
• Diagnosing or treating complex eye conditions needing immediate intervention.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about when your blurred vision started, whether it affects one or both eyes, and if you have other symptoms like headache, eye pain, or dizziness. They may ask about your medical history, including diabetes or eye conditions. You might be guided to perform simple vision tests, such as reading text or describing what you see, to help assess your vision remotely.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, flashes of light, new floaters, or trauma to the eye, seek emergency in-person care. These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that require urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Visit

Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have a list of your current medications and any eye drops you use. Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly, including when they started and how they have changed. If possible, have someone assist you during the visit to help with camera positioning or tests.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Blurred Vision

Telemedicine can help with initial assessment and advice but cannot replace a full eye exam. Some conditions require specialized equipment and tests that can only be done in person. Your provider may recommend an in-person visit if needed.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider’s advice regarding medications, monitoring symptoms, and scheduling follow-up appointments. If your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection.
• Have a list of your current medications and eye treatments ready.
• Be prepared to describe your symptoms clearly, including onset and changes.
• Have a flashlight or phone light available to assist with simple eye checks if instructed.
• Arrange for someone to assist you during the visit if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any treatment or monitoring instructions given by your provider.
• Schedule an in-person eye exam if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if you develop red flags or worsening symptoms.
• Keep a symptom diary to track any changes in your vision.
• Contact your provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.

FAQs

Can blurred vision be diagnosed through telemedicine?

Telemedicine allows your provider to gather important information about your symptoms and medical history, but it cannot replace a full eye exam. Some causes of blurred vision require specialized tests that must be done in person.

What should I do if my blurred vision suddenly worsens after the telemedicine visit?

If your vision suddenly worsens, or if you develop severe eye pain, redness, or other new symptoms, seek emergency in-person medical care immediately.

Are there simple tests I can do during the telemedicine visit to help my provider?

Yes, your provider may guide you through basic vision tests, such as reading text at different distances or checking for blind spots using your phone or computer screen.

Can telemedicine help with ongoing eye conditions that cause blurred vision?

Telemedicine can be useful for follow-up discussions, medication management, and symptom monitoring, but regular in-person eye exams are important for managing chronic eye conditions.

Sources

1. Blurred Vision — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Eye Health and Vision Care — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Blurred Vision: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine in Ophthalmology — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience any red flag symptoms or worsening vision, seek immediate in-person medical care.