5 Signs It’s Time to See an Ophthalmologist
(And Why Waiting Could Cost You Your Vision)
Our eyes are remarkably resilient, yet incredibly delicate. They allow us to read, drive, recognise loved ones, and navigate the world with confidence. But like any part of the body, eyes can develop problems — some minor, some potentially sight-threatening.
When something changes in your vision, it’s tempting to wait and see if it improves on its own. However, ignoring warning signs could mean the difference between quick recovery and lasting damage.
At Visionare Eye Specialists in Auchenflower, Dr Nick Toalster provides advanced, compassionate care for people experiencing a range of eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and retinal disorders. Understanding when to seek specialist help is the first step in protecting your sight for life.
Optometrist or Ophthalmologist — Who Should You See?
In Australia, optometrists and ophthalmologists often work closely together. Knowing the difference can help you get the right care at the right time.
Optometrists are highly trained primary eye-care professionals. They perform sight tests, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and can detect early signs of disease. If they find something that requires specialist attention, they will refer you to an ophthalmologist.
Ophthalmologists like Dr Toalster are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating all eye diseases — both medically and surgically. They manage complex or advanced conditions and perform procedures such as cataract removal, glaucoma surgery, and laser treatments.
If you’re unsure who to see, a simple rule is:
See your optometrist for regular check-ups, and an ophthalmologist if you notice sudden changes, persistent symptoms, or are referred for specialist care.
1. Blurred or Cloudy Vision That Doesn’t Clear
It’s easy to dismiss mild blurriness as fatigue, dry eyes, or needing a new pair of glasses. But persistent or worsening blurred vision could be an early sign of a cataract, macular degeneration, or a more serious retinal condition.
Cataracts are especially common as we age — the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, gradually reducing clarity and contrast. While glasses may help temporarily, only surgery can restore clear vision once the cataract progresses.
If you notice difficulty reading, glare from headlights, or dullness in colours, it’s time to book a comprehensive eye assessment. Dr Toalster can determine whether the cause is simple or something requiring surgical management.
2. Loss of Peripheral (Side) Vision
One of the earliest signs of glaucoma — often called the “silent thief of sight” — is a gradual narrowing of your side vision. Because the change happens slowly, many people don’t realise they’re missing parts of their visual field until significant damage has occurred.
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased pressure inside the eye. Left untreated, this damage is permanent. Regular eye pressure checks and visual-field tests can detect the disease early, long before symptoms appear.
If you’ve noticed bumping into objects on one side, missing parts of words when reading, or needing to turn your head more when driving, it’s time to see an ophthalmologist for testing.
3. Sudden Flashes, Floaters, or a Curtain Over Your Vision
Flashes of light, new or worsening floaters, or the sensation of a shadow or curtain moving across your vision may indicate a retinal tear or detachment — a medical emergency.
The retina is a delicate layer of tissue at the back of the eye that converts light into visual signals. If it detaches, urgent treatment is required to prevent permanent vision loss.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact an ophthalmologist immediately. At Visionare Eye Specialists, Dr Toalster can perform detailed imaging and, if needed, arrange rapid treatment to protect your sight.
4. Eye Pain, Redness, or Sudden Vision Changes
Pain, redness, or pressure around the eyes can be caused by inflammation, infection, or raised eye pressure. While some cases may be due to dry eye or mild irritation, others can signal acute glaucoma or uveitis, which require immediate attention.
Seek urgent specialist care if you have:
- Severe pain or headache around one eye
- Sudden blurred vision or seeing haloes around lights
- Redness that persists despite over-the-counter drops
Delaying review could allow pressure or inflammation to cause irreversible nerve damage.
5. Vision Problems Linked to Other Health Conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune diseases can affect the eyes long before you notice symptoms. Regular reviews with an ophthalmologist help monitor for silent changes, such as diabetic retinopathy or hypertensive eye disease.
Dr Toalster often works closely with GPs and optometrists across Brisbane to coordinate care for patients with systemic health issues, ensuring early detection and timely intervention.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes or notice any visual changes — even mild blurring — schedule a specialist assessment.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Many eye diseases progress quietly. By the time symptoms are noticeable, the damage may already be permanent. Early diagnosis gives you the best chance of preserving clear, comfortable vision.
Modern ophthalmology offers advanced diagnostic technology, from high-resolution retinal scans to precise pressure monitoring, allowing earlier detection and more effective treatment.
Dr Toalster’s philosophy is simple: act early, treat gently, and care continuously. His patients often remark on his calm, thorough approach — taking the time to explain every finding and step in plain language, so you can make confident, informed decisions about your care.
Local, Specialist Care in Brisbane
Located in Auchenflower, just minutes from Brisbane’s city centre, Visionare Eye Specialists provides accessible, comprehensive care for adults and older Australians concerned about their vision.
Whether you’re seeking assessment for new symptoms, a second opinion, or ongoing management of a chronic condition like glaucoma or cataract, Dr Nick Toalster and his team offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment in a comfortable, supportive environment.
By combining modern technology with genuine empathy, they help patients maintain not only their sight — but also their independence, confidence, and quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Vision
Your eyes deserve specialist attention. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, or it’s been more than two years since your last comprehensive eye exam, now is the time to act.
Book an appointment with Dr Nick Toalster at Visionare Eye Specialists in Auchenflower to ensure your eyes — and your future vision — remain in expert hands.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified eye-care professional for diagnosis and treatment specific to your situation. Information current as of October 2025.