As Ramadan approaches, many people adjust their daily routines, including medical appointments to align with fasting hours. While postponing non-urgent check-ups may seem practical, specialists at Barraquer emphasize that certain eye symptoms should never be delayed, even during the holy month. Ignoring warning signs can result in serious complications, including permanent vision loss.
One of the most critical symptoms requiring immediate medical attention is sudden vision loss in one or both eyes. This may signal a retinal detachment, retinal artery or vein occlusion, or other sight-threatening vascular events. Early intervention is essential to preserve vision, and any abrupt change in sight should be treated as an emergency.
Patients should also seek urgent evaluation if they experience sudden flashes of light, a rapid increase in floaters, or a shadow or curtain-like effect across their field of vision. These signs may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Prompt treatment, often through laser therapy or minor surgical intervention can prevent further progression and reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Severe eye pain accompanied by redness, headache, nausea, or blurred vision may point to acute glaucoma, a condition caused by a sudden rise in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Delaying care, even for a few hours, can significantly impact long-term visual outcomes.
Serious eye infections also demand swift medical attention. Symptoms such as intense redness, swelling, thick discharge, light sensitivity, and decreased vision could indicate bacterial or viral infections affecting the cornea or deeper structures of the eye. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial to prevent complications and safeguard ocular health.
Experts at Barraquer stress that fasting should not prevent individuals from seeking urgent medical care. In Islam, health preservation is paramount, and patients with medical emergencies are permitted to break their fast if necessary. Ophthalmologists can provide guidance tailored to each patient’s condition, ensuring both medical safety and respect for religious observance.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or previous retinal disease, should be particularly vigilant during Ramadan, as dehydration and metabolic fluctuations may increase the risk of complications. Any unusual visual changes should prompt immediate consultation.
The message from specialists is clear: when it comes to your eyesight, do not delay. Acting quickly can mean the difference between a simple treatment and permanent vision loss.
Written by Dr. Ola Alsaed, Ophthalmologist at Barraquer Eye Hospital.