Patient Information

Sudden vision loss is an absolute ophthalmological emergency. Arterial occlusion, retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, wet AMD — the causes are numerous and immediate management is essential.

Distorted vision (curved straight lines, metamorphopsia) indicates an urgent macular condition: wet AMD, myopic choroidal neovascularisation or epiretinal membrane.

Flashes of light (photopsia) may signal retinal traction or a retinal tear. Learn to recognise the warning signs and seek prompt ophthalmic assessment.

A sudden and abundant onset of floaters can be a sign of a retinal tear or vitreous hemorrhage. Learn to recognize the warning signs that demand an emergency ophtalmological consultation.

The perception of a dark curtain in the visual field — a fixed shadow, a progressive black veil, or a sudden loss of part of the visual field — is one of the most urgent reasons for consultation in ophthalmology. Whether it appears suddenly or develops over several hours, this symptom almost always indicates a serious disorder of the retina or ocular vasculature. Dr Julien Gozlan, ophthalmologist in Paris 16, explains how to recognise this warning sign, which conditions are responsible, and what emergency treatments can be offered.

Floaters — or myodesopsia — can have very different causes: normal ageing, posterior vitreous detachment, high myopia, inflammation or haemorrhage. Dr Julien Gozlan reviews all these causes and the management options available in Paris 16.

Vitreous hemorrhage refers to the presence of blood within the vitreous, the transparent gel that fills the interior of the eye. It often causes sudden vision loss, the appearance of a dark veil, or a «shower of soot» effect. Some forms are straightforward and resolve spontaneously, while others may conceal a retinal detachment or severe vascular disease. Dr Julien Gozlan, ophthalmic surgeon in Paris 16, explains the causes, symptoms, diagnostic examinations (OCT, ultrasound) and treatments for vitreous hemorrhage.

A macular hole is a small opening in the center of the retina, within the macula. This condition often causes decreased central vision, a spot in the middle of the visual field, and distorted lines. Dr Julien Gozlan, ophthalmic surgeon in Paris 16, explains the OCT diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis.

A macular epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of tissue that forms on the surface of the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It can cause image distortion (metamorphopsia), progressive vision loss, and difficulty reading. It most commonly appears after the age of 50, related to natural changes in the vitreous. Dr Julien Gozlan, ophthalmic surgeon in Paris 16, explains the causes, symptoms, the role of OCT, and the surgical treatment.