referral criteria from primary care - floaters and flashes

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • if floaters/flashes are of recent onset (less than six weeks duration): urgent outpatient referral (within one week)
    • sooner if the floaters/flashes worsen

  • if flashes/floaters are of recent onset and associated with decreased vision then urgent casualty referral is indicated
  • if longstanding floaters/flashes then some suggest no need for referral (1) whilst others suggest routine referral (2)

  • if a new onset field loss then for specialist review within one day (2)

  • acute blurring of vision then urgent review within one to three days (2)

Reference: