# Vision Changes: Eye Care Guidance | World Aid Network

> Source: https://worldaidnetwork.org/eye-health/screening-checker
> Find out when vision changes need urgent eye care, read reliable eye health guidance and learn how to ask World Aid Network about surgery support.

Eye health information

# Vision changes: getting the right help

Use this guide to find professional help and reliable information about eye care.

Quick answer 

 An online symptom guide cannot diagnose cataracts, glaucoma or other eye conditions, or decide whether you qualify for funded surgery. Arrange an assessment with an eye care professional for vision changes. Sudden loss of sight or sudden severe eye pain needs emergency care. Contact World Aid Network separately about programme enquiries. 

## When should I seek urgent help?

If you suddenly cannot see from one or both eyes, or suddenly develop severe eye pain, seek emergency medical care immediately. In the UK, go to A&E or call 999\. Elsewhere, use your local emergency service. Do not wait for a charity enquiry to be answered.

Other changes, including blurred or double vision, flashes, a dark shadow, or a painful red eye, need urgent medical advice. In the UK, contact an urgent GP service or NHS 111\. Follow local medical advice if you are outside the UK.

Source: [NHS guidance on vision loss](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vision-loss/), checked 19 September 2026.

## Can symptoms tell me whether I have cataracts?

Symptoms can have more than one cause. An eye examination is needed to understand what is happening and discuss treatment. This page does not give a diagnosis or a probability score.

Read [NHS information about cataracts](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cataracts/) or explore our [eye health guides](/eye-health). Information online does not replace an examination.

## How can I ask about funded eye surgery?

Read about [sight-restoring eye surgery](/eye-surgery) and [contact the team](/contact) about current programme availability. Symptoms alone do not establish eligibility. Support requires review and depends on available funds and clinical assessment.

[Ask about the eye care programme](/contact) 

## How can I help someone access eye care?

Understand the care available, explore its costs and see how a donation reaches a treatment partner.

- [Sight-restoring eye surgery](/eye-surgery)  
Explore the eye care programme and treatment pathway.
- [Sponsor cataract surgery](/sponsor-a-cataract-operation)  
Learn how to help fund an operation.
- [Eye surgery cost calculator](/eye-surgery-cost-calculator)  
Explore indicative costs before choosing a gift.
- [Where your donation goes](/where-your-money-goes)  
Read how funds are allocated and accounted for.

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