Is this something to be concerned about?

[Snacks]

I have never had my eyes checked - have never had a problem with my vision. I know I should do it just to be healthy and I just haven't gotten around to it.
The last couple of days I've had a bit of a 'spec' in my vision. I can't see anything on my eyeball or eyelashes. The spec follows my line of vision around but is only really noticable and annoying when I'm looking on the computer or looking at a blank light-coloured surface.
Is this common? Should have this checked out or is it something just related to tiredness?
Do you need a referral to see an optometrist? Do you usually have to make an appointment for an eye test or are there eye-type medical centres where you can drop in and they bulk bill?
TIA for any advice.

[Muppity]

you dont' need a referral to an optometrist and if you haven't been to one before they should bulk bill (I have never been charged - but I think you only get one free appointment every two years under medicare)

A lot of glasses shops have optometrists attached and you can usually get an appointment quite quickly.

Hope that it is nothing to worry about - but best to get it checked I think.

[ll80]

Def. go get it checked out.
Any abnormality with your vision should be checked out asap.

Optometrist will bulk bill and you don't need a referral.

[slyder]

Sounds like a floater, which we all have under the surface of our eyes. Even if it's not that, it's nothing to worry about but you might as well go to an optometrist anyway and ask the question, and get your vision tested at the same time. You might be surprised in finding your vision isn't 100%, as visual changes are so gradual. Or maybe you will be lucky and just have awesome vision.

And it is free (Medicare) so you may as well.

[~Kim~]

If it follows your vision babe, I'd get it checked out.

[~me~]

Sounds like a floater, which we all have under the surface of our eyes. Even if it's not that, it's nothing to worry about but you might as well go to an optometrist anyway and ask the question, and get your vision tested at the same time. You might be surprised in finding your vision isn't 100%, as visual changes are so gradual. Or maybe you will be lucky and just have awesome vision.

And it is free (Medicare) so you may as well.

:yeahthat:

I worked in optics for 10yrs (still have a connection) and this would could come up alot. I am not an optometrist, I am the Optical Dispenser/Mechanic.

[Snacks]

I have quit being lazy and have made the appointment
Thanks for your replies.

[Life is Good]

I have floaters and they are very annoying! The good news is that they, in themselves, are harmless. The trouble is that if you have a several of them at once, it could rarely indicate an impending retinal detachment (I know this because those run in our family!). So, whilst it may be nothing, just getting your retina checked (in a routine eye exam) is a really good idea. Floaters are annoying, I agree, but often they dissipate and are less bothersome in time.