Retinal tears are vision-threatening conditions that may develop after physical exertion, trauma, or vitreoretinal traction. They require rapid identification to prevent progression to retinal detachment. Primary care physicians frequently serve as the first point of contact when patients present with sudden visual disturbances, making their role in recognizing early warning signs essential.A 33-year-old woman presented to a family health center after running, reporting sudden flashes of light and dark floaters in her right eye. She had no history of trauma or eye disease. The external eye examination was normal, and gross visual acuity was preserved, although a detailed assessment was not possible. Due to symptoms suggestive of a retinal tear, she was urgently referred to an ophthalmologist. The main strength of management was the quick recognition of red-flag symptoms and immediate referral, reducing the risk of delayed diagnosis. The key limitation was the limited diagnostic capacity in primary care. Nevertheless, a timely specialist evaluation demonstrated effective triage.While retinal tears are well documented, reports of exertion-related cases presenting first to primary care are relatively scarce. Existing literature often focuses on trauma-related mechanisms, whereas this case highlights the importance of assessing non-traumatic but sudden visual symptoms following physical activity. The case contributes a unique perspective by illustrating how a primary care clinician, without advanced tools, can still make a critical early diagnosis based solely on symptom recognition.The case reinforces that sudden photopsia or floaters, even in the absence of trauma, should prompt urgent consideration of retinal pathology. Primary care physicians must maintain clinical vigilance and be prepared to act quickly when such red flags arise. Incorporating training modules or decision aids could further improve recognition and referral pathways, enhancing patient safety.This case emphasizes the crucial role of primary care in early detection of retinal tears. Strengthening communication between primary care services and ophthalmology clinics may reduce delays and improve patient outcomes.Rapid identification and referral of acute visual symptoms in primary care can prevent retinal detachment and preserve long-term vision, highlighting the broader significance of early clinical suspicion.